From the producers of Celtic Illusion, comes a powerful new theatrical experience in Ireland: The Voyage, an epic celebration of Ireland’s history, heart, and heritage brought to life through authentic voices, live music, and world-class Irish dance. Emotional, exhilarating, and deeply immersive, Ireland: The Voyage invites audiences to feel the pulse of a nation – it’s triumphs, its tragedies, its music, and its unbreakable spirit, in a live experience you will never forget!
I was fortunate to be able to delve into this world of all things Ireland currently touring around our country.
Firstly, in my years in dancing (over five decades) I’ve only ever seen Irish dancing twice in my life before (shameful I know!). Once at a high school talent show, and once when I organised a display floorshow at one of our dance fundraisers (everyone commented afterwards how good it was).
This style of dance has sustained as entertainment for decades in theatres around the world, on cruise ships, feature festivals and more. And certainly now I can fully understand why. Whether or not you are Irish, love Irish dancing or music, or just enjoy any stage performances generally; Irish vibes are contagious and captivating!
This show however is much more than just an Irish jig to a whistling tune; it is a real journey of shared stories, history and spirit.
We learn in detail from our host Giselle about the interesting Irish instruments being played in the traditional Irish band, which remains in full view throughout the show on stage. Each band member is also introduced by name with a little of their Irish background and musical accomplishments. They are all simply brilliant musicians and together bring this show wholly to life.
Irish songs sung both in English and traditional language by Giselle O’Meara are truly unforgettable. Her superior voice carries off each and every note like a fine instrument you could easily listen to for hours. Not loud and showy, but gentle and sweet; welcoming and inviting us to just enjoy!
I closed my eyes a number of times purposefully to listen and take it all in. Not only am I learning along the way about Ireland, a place I loved visiting 25 years ago, I am growing a great appreciation for this music and sound.
Shining stars are evident in the Irish dance champions – a trio mesmerize us with unbroken unison of speed and grace, extraordinary flexibility and control in traditional Gaelic; skillful solo features of rapidly increasing intricate footwork are an honour to witness, and later in the show we will clap along to particular beats in joyful harmony encouraged.
This beautiful show was such a lovely relaxing night out, and my Mum who came with me went home to try and find the great Irish love song ‘Grace’ to add to her playlist.
Thank you so much to the cast, musicians and team at Base Entertainment for this chance to broaden my knowledge of Ireland whilst at the same time tapping my foot along to some incredible music and songs from this voyage on stage transporting us all in the lucky audience to the Emerald Isle afar.
Ticket link: https://www.irelandthevoyage.com/
INSTAGRAM: @ireland_thevoyage
Tour includes cities and towns all over Australia and New Zealand.
Cast:
Giselle O’Meara (Champion Irish dancer and former lead vocalist for Michael Flatley’s global phenomenon Lord of the Dance Arena Tour)
Sara O’Hara (World Top 20 Irish Dancing Championship)
Liam Mcweeny (former quadruple Australian National Champion Irish Dancer)
Corey White (runner-up Australian International Oireachtas)
Musicians:
Tim Gleeson (guitar and Irish drum, the bodhrán)
Cormac O’Hanlon (concertina)
Ciara McGoldrick (low and high pitch whistles)
Muireann O’Dwyer (harp)
To book tickets to Ireland The Voyage, please visit https://www.irelandthevoyage.com/australia.
