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Essence of Ireland Dance Troup

Jamie Meek – Male Lead Dancer

Jamie has been dancing professionally now for the past 9 years. He attended Pattison Theatre Arts where he gained five associates in both I.D.T.A and I.S.T.D.

Since then he has toured the world with Irish dance shows Spirit of the Dance (as male lead), Dancing Queen, Fire of the Dance, Dance Passion, and was original cast for The Essence of Ireland.

Jamie has also worked on various TV shows such as Top of the Pops, Friday Night Project, Paul O’Grady and Ricky Gervais’s Extra’s. Film Credits include Bollywood hits Janeman and KANK and period British film Inkheart.

>Alongside this he has appeared in various commercials and modelling campaigns.

Jennifer Gainey – Female Lead dancer

Jennifer graduated in 2001 with a Dance Diploma at the Hammond School in Chester. She then went straight to her first contract on Celebrity Cruise ships taking her from America to the Caribbean. She continued her love for travel joining the company Spirit of the Dance where she worked her way from chorus to Irish lead while touring around Europe, Asia, US and New Zealand.
Jennifer’s other dance credits include ‘All you need is Love’ Theatre Royal Windsor, ‘The Genius of Ray Charles’ Niagara Falls Casino, Leon Theatre France, ’Dancing Queen’ Norway tour, Atlantic City, Dubai and UK tour, ‘Thursford Christmas Spectacular’ Norfolk, ‘Ray of Light’ Portugal, ‘Cinderella’ Panto (understudy Fairy Godmother), ‘Aladdin’ Panto where she was Dance Captain in the Kings Theatre, Glasgow.

Jennifer’s TV credits include ‘The One and Only’ (Dancer) and ‘Hollyoaks’ (featured extra).

She has recently returned from Monte Carlo where she was performing an Elvis show called ‘The King of Rock and Roll’ at the Sporting Club Casino.
Jennifer is thrilled to be joining and performing with the cast of Essence of Ireland and continuing her love for Irish dancing.

Susie Parsley – Choreographer

London born Susie has many choreography credits to her name including UK tours of Chartbusters, Red Hot Party and Flashback. Other Credits include choreography for Gilbert and Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore for the Gulbenkian Theatre, Canterbury.

For T.V she has choreographed Star Stories for Channel 4 and The Merry Go Round for ITV.

As a performer Susie has worked all over the world as Lead Vocalist and Dance Captain in various production shows for several cruise liners. She also regularly sings as Lead Singer in West End party band Musik Express.

She was also lucky enough to have the privilege of performing at The Queens’ 80th Birthday at Buckingham Palace.

Susie enjoys spending her spare time at home in Bromley with her boyfriend Stuart. She also runs her own production company Decadance Productions.

Robyn Ford - Dancer

Born and raised in Canada, Robyn has been dancing and entertaining audiences since the age of three. She has trained extensively in various forms of dance including Cecchetti Ballet, Modern, Contemporary, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre and Irish Dance.

Robyn has a BA Honours Degree in Theatre Dance through London Studio Centre and has been fortunate to have had the opportunity to train and dance with some of the world’s top dancers. Robyn has toured in Canada, Los Angeles, Berlin, Dresden, Brussels and extensively throughout the UK and Scotland.

Robyn has performed in Musical Theatre productions in Canada such as West Side Story, Cabaret, Anything Goes, Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Annie. Chicago Spain and danced alongside Kylie Minogue in ITV’s The Kylie Show. She was an original cast member in Essence of Ireland and looks forward to her third tour with the company.

Katie Brotherhood - Dancer

Katie grew up in Nottingham where she trained as a Dancer and Figure Skater since the age of five. She competed in many Dance festivals and two British Skating Championships as well as performing in numerous pantomimes at the Playhouse, Theatre Royal and National Ice Centre in Nottingham.

Katie then went on to work as a Dancer/Dance Captain for Carnival Cruise lines which enabled her to travel all over the world.

Katie's recent work includes "Illusion On Ice" in Mexico for Global Ice Productions, and the UK tour of Mickey's Magic Show playing the part of Cinderella for Disney's Feld Entertainment.

Katie is pleased to be returning to Essence of Ireland.

Abbie Porter - Dancer

Abbie started dancing at the age of 5 and at 7 years old went to train at the Hilary Hall Dance Academy where she graduated last summer.

During her training she was lucky enough to perform in several variety shows and pantomimes, these include 'Dick Whittington' (Mountbatten Theatre), Lead dancer 'Dance Out Loud' (Medina Theatre), Lead Dancer "One Night Only' (Medina Theatre), and Featured Dancer Annual Charity Gala (Ryde Theatre).

After also recently completing a Diploma in Performing Arts, she started her professional debut, at Christmas, as an ensemble in Snow white and the seven dwarfs (The Grove theatre).

Abbie is thrilled to be part of ‘The essence of Ireland’ for the first time and would like to thank all her family and partner for all their support!

Wayne Thompson - Dancer

Wayne Thompson from Liverpool has been dancing for 8 years. He trained at Merseyside Dance and Drama Centre for 3 years, and from there has been in shows all over the world.

Along with theatre work he has also appeared in Bollywood movies and music videos for both English and Indian artists.

He says he is looking forward to another tour with The Essence Of Ireland.

Michael Cortez - Dancer

Michael trained at the Italia Conti Academy in London where he graduated as head boy, July 09.

Whilst training he worked extensively as a commercial dancer and in theatre, recent projects include:
Britains Got Talent (ITV), Genie In The House (Nickelodeon), Eugene McGuiness Music Video (choreo.Supple Nam/Kryptic), and the Royal Masonic Variety Performance (Prince of Wales Theatre).

Michael has also started to work as a choreographer, his creative credits include shows for 'Toni & Guy London' and 'Out2Dance', as well as pieces for Italia Conti Associates around the UK. For more information contact - Enquiries@cblmanagement.co.uk

Michael is excited to join the cast of 'Essence of Ireland'

Brian Elrick - Dancer

Born in Aberdeen, Brian Graduated from East 15 acting School, London.

Theatre Roles include: Hansel in Hansel and Gretel (Priestly theatre). Benedict Dover in The Monday Morning Riots, (Blackfriars Arts Centre). Rick Brown, The Price of Fame, (The Gatehouse Theatre). Ernesto in Love Me Dorothy (Sound theatre London). Lysander in A midsummer night’s Dream( Belgrade theatre, Coventry) Klaus Munn in Mephisto (Camden People's Theatre) Alladin in Aladdin (Brunton Theatre). Floyd, Ghost of a Chance (Talk of London Theatre). Dandini in Cinderella, (Eden Court Theatre) Claudio in Measure for Measure, (Camden Theatro technis). Jack, Jack & the Beanstalk (Eden Court Theatre).

Musicals include: Colin Craven, The Secret Garden, (Uk Tour) Lead Vocalist, The Show Must Go On, (no.1 UK Tour) Venus De Mont in ORGASM the musical (Edinburgh Festival) Street Jazz, All that Jazz (UK tour) Harry, Soultrain (Uk Tour), Lead Vocalist onboard Cruise ships including, M.S. Sunbird and Carousel for My Travel.

Helen Jeckells - Dancer

This is Helen's fourth Irish show, having appeared in The Essence of Ireland last year, Magical Rhythms of Ireland 11, and Spirit of the Dance.

At Christmas she played Witch Hazel and choreographed Beauty and the Beast for Paul Holman Associates at the Palace Theatre, Redditch, alongside Bernie Clifton, and has previously worked with Lionel Blair, Wayne Sleep, and Ann Charleston to name a few!

Credits include: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (National Tour), The Rat Pack Party (Windsor & Jersey), Forever in Blue Jeans, Rigoletto and La Forza del Destino (Royal Opera House), Into the Woods, and five seasons in Seaside Special at the Pavilion Theatre, Cromer.

Helen has also appeared in several plays including Comedy of Errors, Once a Catholic, One September Night, The Children's Hour, and The Three Sisters.

Choreographic work includes several pantomimes and summer shows such as Summer Spectacular (Clacton & Bournemouth), The Crazy Horse Saloon Shows, The Fantastics, Paradise by the Dashboard, Lights, The Melody Lingers On, Peter Pan, and Cinderella to Snow White!

Laura Stone - Dancer

Laura started dancing at the age of two and was trained by her mother at The Elmwood School of Dance on the Isle of Wight.

Laura completed grades in ballet, tap, modern and jazz, she then worked for Warners Hotel in Bembridge, Isle of Wight, as a dancer before moving to the Tiffany Theatre College in Essex to gain more experience. Laura continued training in other areas such as singing and commercial dance.

After completing the advanced graduate course, Laura performed in various charity events, shows, for the dance school and performed at the Pakistani Festival in Trafalgar square.

She then worked as a backing dancer for a touring cabaret show in Rhodes visiting 5 star hotels including the Hilton Hotel. Laura also teaches for her mother in between shows and spent the 2009 season in North Devon as a dancer at Woolacombe Bay Holiday Village, where she was chorographer and head dancer.

Laura is in the middle of doing her I.S.T.D teaching exams in dance and is very excited to be a part of the Essence of Ireland.

Shanachie “The Essence of Ireland Band and Singers

Ged Graham – Lead Vocals

Ged who originally hails from Dublin has been performing music for over 25 years and is one of the most successful and sought after Irish performers based in the North West of England.

Ged spent many years touring the UK, Europe the USA and his native Ireland.and has also had the opportunity to play all of the leading venues in the north of England including Manchesters Palace Theatre, Free Trade Hall and GMEX Centre and Blackpool's Winter Gardens.

Ged recorded two successful albums with the 'The Borderline Showband' which featured Coronation Streets Kevin Kennedy (Curly Watts).
Ged also spent several years in The Flight of Earls playing traditional and contemporary Irish music touring extensively throughout the UK as the Guinness house band and undertaking several summer seasons in Blackpool and Tenerife.

He is a regular performer on BBC radio and independent radio stations.

Ged has most recently worked with international recording star 'Dana' as part of her UK band and has just released his first solo country album 'Standing Outside The Fire'

Éimear Bradley – Violinist and backing vocals

Éimear started playing the violin at the age of seven in her native Belfast. After completing her music degree, she moved to the North West of England to develop her career both as a performer and writer.

In a short space of time, Éimear has built a solid reputation as a brilliant live fiddle player performing regularly with top folk/country band The Bogtrotters throughout the UK and Europe, and has guested with numerous other artists.

Most recently and notably, she performed as part of Adrian Edmondson’s Bad Shepherds during a series of gigs in the Caribbean, before returning to the UK to start work on an album of her own songs and compositions, which should be available later in 2009.

Eimear has also worked with top folk artist Anthony John Clarke on his album and the producer Keith Hopwood (of Herman’s Hermits fame) on the soundtrack to the Bob the Builder movie ‘Built To Be Wild’. More recently she played on the Bob the Builder 2008 Christmas hit, ‘Big Fish Little Fish’!

Éimear made an appearance playing the fiddle in Demi Moore's 2005 movie 'Half Light' and played on the sound track. Eimear is also an actress and played lead role in a BBC Northern Ireland screen play.

Nathan James – Vocals

Nathan discovered his talent for singing when he auditioned for a mass schools concert aged 11 and was chosen to sing solo in front of 2000 people. From that moment on Nathan knew he wanted to perform.

Nathan joined the Berkshire Boys Choir, where he toured all over England and performed at the Royal Albert Hall and the Royal Festival Hall and competed in many competitions. He also toured Germany, Holland and Denmark with the choir in cathedrals and concert halls.

During Nathan’s summer season at the park he appeared on the hit ITV show the X Factor, aged 17 and managed to secure himself a place at boot camp. Nathan did very well at boot camp and got into the last 21 in his category. Nathan was a hit with all of the judges and Simon Cowell described him as ‘a male Joss Stone’.

In September of 2005 Nathan moved to Tenerife and worked as a singer in numerous hotels on the island. 2006 saw Nathan’s return to England.

With the new experiences under his belt he set to work on his own Cabaret show to tour round parks and clubs in the U.K.

Nathan is also one of the main vocalists in the Showproviders sister show “Route 66”, where he tours throughout the UK and Europe.

Liam Holmes – Musical Director/Keyboards/Accordian

Liam has performed since a young age ..boards, as well as drums and bass guitar.

After graduating from Cardiff University with a music degree in 2004 he has embarked on a career in music. He has been fortunate enough to work with a variety of talented performers in a wide array of fields.

Liam also works as a Musical Director and Arranger. This is his second tour with The Essence of Ireland and his fifth stint on the road for The Show Providers.

Hannah Cope – Bass Guitar/Vocals

Hannah Cope is a committed and energetic bass player, passionate about the classic genres of country, blues and Jazz. She has spent almost 20 years performing all over the UK, Ireland and the US, where she has acquired a rich and diverse musical background. Her solid, simple and passionate style shadows her heroes of the bass David Pegg and John Mcvie

Her love of playing live has lead her to perform with many different and varied acts including the house band at The Golf Links, Isle of Man, backing classic entertainers such as Bill Tarmey and Norman Wisdom, followed her love of Country music with a Country Duo touring the Republic Of Ireland and she has toured the UK with a live Girl pop band ‘Girlz World’. More recently she has made her mark on the UK Blues scene playing clubs and festivals with outfits including and The Sam Kelly Band and The Rik Martin band

Hannah has spent much of her time in the US, travelling and playing her way around the country. She has played in some of the great Blues venues of North America including Buddy Guys ‘Legends’ with Jimmy McCracklin, Antones - Austin and The Silver Dollar - Las Vegas.

Sarah Jory – Banjo, Steel Guitar and Vocals

SARAH JORY ,a native of Reading in Berkshire, England where she was born Sarah Elizabeth Jory on Thursday 20 November 1969, graduated to playing steel guitar at an extraordinarily early age; she got her first steel guitar when she was five, played her first concert when she was six & joined her first band when she was nine years old.

In 1978, Sarah was a featured artist on BBC Radio 2's 'Live from Golder's Green' where she was backed by the group Poacher. It was also in 1978 that Sarah's dad Arthur noted an advertisement for a steel guitarist to join a four-piece band called Colorado Country. Arthur secured an audition & Sarah was subsequently hired; the band also changed their name to Sarah & Colorado Country. Sarah worked with Colorado Country for four years, followed by an assortment of gigs while she completed her schooling.

Between 1984 & 2001 Sarah played major steel guitar conventions in the US on thirteen occasions & shared the same stage as Buddy Emmons, Lloyd Green & Paul Franklin. It was during these visits to the US, Sarah worked with country music stars Ricky Skaggs, Porter Wagoner & Gene Watson, Eric Clapton , Kenny Rogers , Glen Campbell , Charlie Pride and Daniel o Donnell. , as well a winning the BCMA Female vocalist 8 times and European Entertainer of the year 10 years in a row.

Sarah plays banjo, mandolin, guitar & keyboards as well as steel guitar and for the last 3 and a half years has been touring a recording with music legend Van Morrison , as well as being involved in several other music projects.

Nathan O’Borne – Lead Guitar

Nathan has been playing guitar since the age of 5, thanks to coming from a big Irish musical family. Playing his first gig at the age of 10, Nathan now considers himself very lucky to work as a full time guitarist at the age of only 18.

Nathan plays in many different styles of bands and has played everywhere from the Ricoh Arena, Symphony Hall, and has even toured Europe. Nathan currently tours with Universal signed singer/songwriter Joe Brooks amongst many others.

Barrie Cooper – Drums

I've been a pro drummer since I was 20. I've studied & passed grade 8 advanced drums with Trinity College.

I've worked & toured worldwide with Sarah Jory, who is now currently working with Van Morrison. I've also worked & recorded with EMI producer David Mckaiy, Dame Edna Everage, who’s album went Platinum in Australia last year.

I played drums on Bob the Builders latest film, which was released world-wide.

For the past 3 yrs I've been working with Show Providers in numerous shows.

Tim Flaherty – Lead Dep Vocals

Tim was an original member of the popular British country band Poacher who had a billboard chart hit in the USA with Darlin, he has recorded numerous albums including a USA release with Melanie.

Lenny Whitehead – Dep Guitar/mandolin

Len got his first guitar for his 5th Birthday, and quickly took to it. By the age of 8 was performing in front of his schoolmates in school performances. At the age of 12 he played his first paid gig, and at 17 left school to become a full-time professional guitarist.

From that time he has toured the U.K. Europe and the U.S.A. with numerous bands. He has always broadened his options by playing many styles of music: He even passed an audition to join Van Morrison.

Len has played on many recording sessions, for such diverse artists as Ken Dodd, to Bob The Builder, he has even appeared on the silver screen with Demi Moore in a Hollywood Movie playing guitar on the soundtrack as well as appearing in the scene in the film.

Crew

John Mills - Managing Director/Producer

John has worked in the light entertainment industry for over 30 years. 20 years ago he was the inaugural producer of “That’11 be the Day”, which averaged over 200 shows per year throughout the UK, Europe and Worldwide. The Show played to sell out performances at the London Palladium.

He also founded Forever in Blue Jeans and West End in Concert. John has also produced shows for many blue chip companies such as Nokia, L’Oreal, MFI, Barclaycard and British Airways to name but a few.

Apart from Route 66, The Showproviders also produces the critically acclaimed and very successful Irish show titled “The Essence of Ireland”, which is touring throughout the UK and Europe this year and next, Red Hot Musicals and Flashback.

Steve Etherington - Musical Arrangements

Steve trained classically on piano, guitar and tuba. He played at the Edinburgh Festival in 1981. 1982 he joined chart band 'Whisky Mac' on Bass guitar, keyboards and vocals. 1985 he joined 'Triple Cream'.

During the 80's Steve had chart success playing as a session musician on albums for Rose Marie, The Sisters of Mercy and Dave Stewart (Eurythmics). He also made TV appearances on 'Cats Eyes' and 'Call me mister'. Triple Cream became a comedy show band and toured with adult comedian 'Jimmy Jones'; they also came 2nd on Opportunity Knocks.

1989 Steve left Triple Cream to form 'Musik Express'. This large showband still exists today & is very popular on the corporate scene.

Steve has had great success co-writing and producing songs for Childrens TV and theatre shows such as: Postman Pat, The Mr Men, Noddy, Andy Pandy & Bill & Ben. He has also co-written chart songs for the Cheeky Girls and Chico.

In 2003 Steve wrote the score and was MD for a 6 month run of 'Cliff the Musical' at the Prince of Wales theatre in the West End. He has also played on Blood Brothers, Fame, Daddy Cool & We Will Rock You.

In 2004 Steve had chart success again reaching number 4 with 'Grief Never Grows Old' for which he wrote the string arrangements. 2005 Steve co-wrote 'White Wedding' (80's musical) and 'Last train to Skaville' with Mike Bennet (Ex-'The Fall').

In 2007 Steve composed & arranged the haunting original music for The Essence of Ireland. He has also written many arrangements for the 'Route 66' touring show.

Steve is constantly busy and has a long list of 'Clients' who desire his musical supremecy.

Ross Mills - Director

Ross originally came from a Tennis background, where he trained with the likes of Tim Henan and Greg Ruseski, while playing full time on the tennis circuit. His career was ended early following a hip injury.

Having spent 6 years in management for both banking and consultancy, Ross then entered the entertainment industry as a model and actor and has appeared in various campaigns, fashion shows, commercials and music video’s both in the UK and abroad.

Having worked for the Showproviders for 6 years, Ross now runs the sales and production division and is very excited about the future of the Essence of Ireland and their sister show “Route 66”, which is in association with Harley Davidson.

Richard Price-Hughes - Assistant Director

Richard entered the world of entertainment late in life following successful careers initially as a French Horn player in the army and then 12 years in the Leisure Industry, ending as Business Manager of a Tennis, Golf and Fitness club in St Albans.

Switching to the Theatre at the late age of 35, Richard toured with the 'Thank you for the Music' tour for 2 years. Richard has also acted as tour manager for 'The Red Hot Chartbusters' and has assisted with the marketing and promoting of 'Red Hot Country'. More recently he was Sole Promoter/Marketing Manager for The Treadwell Drifters.

The last two years Richard has been running a successful restaurant in his home town Exmouth, Devon. Having missed the buzz and excitement of the entertainment industry, Richard is very much looking forward to The Essence of Ireland tour .

Aaron James – Dance Director

Aaron trained at the Tiffany Stage Academy. Whilst training he won the 'ISTD UK DANCER OF THE YEAR' award - the only male dancer ever to have received this accolade.

As a performer engagements include Lead Irish Soloist for Spirit of the Dance and Essence of Ireland, Tap Soloist for Fire of Dance, 42nd Street National Tour, One World - UK Tour, Celebrity Cruise Lines, Lily Live for ITV, The Biz and Generation Game for BBC and numerous TV shows in Europe.

Aaron spent 3 years as resident dance director for Spirit of the Dance, staging the production around the globe including Wembley, Las Vegas, New York and Sydney. He was then invited to direct and choreograph the critically acclaimed Fire of Dance throughout Europe and Asia - a show that ran for 5 successful years.

Other choreographic credits include the European Tour of Hot Stuff, Summer and Winter Special at the West Cliff - Clacton, Snow White and Cinderella at the Ipswich Regent, The Gala Opening of the Grove Theatre, Dunstable and various productions for The Tiffany Group.

Aaron has also staged fashion shows and corporate entertainment for clients including Debenhams, The Princes Trust, H&M, Ford, Wrigleys, and Emirates Airline.

Stuart Barnett – Company Manager

Stuart has worked within the event management industry for over ten years. He has successfully organised shows in the UK and around the World including North America, Central and Eastern Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

As Company Manager of Essence of Ireland, Stuart’s role is extremely varied. Predominately though he is responsible for the overall management on the road of the cast, band and crew ensuring they have all they need to perform to their very best.

He enjoys keeping fit, Indian food and is an avid fan of Crystal Palace F.C.

Stuart is delighted to be part of Essence of Ireland – enjoy the show!

Bill White – Stage manager

From an early age I was messing around with light bulbs Progressing to building my first lighting rig when I was 25 years old.

I worked with many local bands around the Midlands, then in 1986 I got my first tour with musical youth around Ireland.

In 1989 I became Stage Manager for The New Kings Cabaret Theatre in Birmingham working with many TV Stars.

In 1996 I went back out on the road and In 2005 joined The Show Providers as a Pyrotechnician. I now design all the pyrotechnics for both the Essence of Ireland & Route 66 Show.

Atlantic Audio – PA

http://www.atlanticaudio.co.uk/
Intelligent Lighting – Lighting

http://www.intelligentlighting.co.uk/

Reviews

Better than RiverDance
02/11/2009
Barry Exton - Manager - Majestic Theatre - Retford - Nov 2009

Essence of Ireland show was extremely well received at Retford's Majestic Theatre. It was a slick, brilliantly choreographed and varied Irish Dance production show of the highest quality with the built in surprise of a Stomp style section!. It was skillfully conceived with Shanachie providing an excellent, authentic musical and vocal backing.

Patrons comments on leaving were 'Fantastic', Brilliant', 'Fabulous', 'Better than River Dance!' 'The Best Yet!'

It was excellent
01/11/2009
Patsy - Fan - Majestic Theatre - Retford - Nov 2009

I saw your performance and it was excellent, precise and it captivated Ireland in the wonderful place it is. A place that we love and remember from growing up there. We as a nation are the only people to have a true sense of empathy with people from all nationalities.

On top of all the other shows
24/10/2009
Seith Nyahora - High Wycombe - September 2009

This is on top of all the other shows I have ever attended.

The Show was fantastic
10/10/2009
Terry Crane - Manager - Castle Hall - Hertford - October 2009

The show was fantastic. The best yet. Great Band, Great Singers, Great Dancers , Great Irish Music.

A Fantastic Show
07/10/2009
Jody Shepherd - Duty Manager - City Hall, Salisbury - October 2009

A fantastic show displaying a true variety of Irish music and dance.
Enjoyed not only by the audience, but extremely appreciated by the venue staff.
Looking forward to your return in 2010

The best Irish show around
06/10/2009
Brendan McCusker - Southampton Echo - October 2009

If you enjoyed Riverdance, Lord of the Dance and Spirit of the Dance, you will love this show because its even better. This colourful celebration is a perfect balance of Irish dance and music. The dancers are simply superb, delivering both intricate, graceful, soft shoe routines and incredibly precise thundering tap dances. Choreography is creative and dramatic modern dance pieces, explode with clattering broomsticks and dustbin lids. Costumes range from combat gear to swirling short Irish dresses.

Unlike some shows which use pre-recorded music for backing, ESSENCE OF IRELAND features a fine live band, most of the numbers are beautifully performed a mix of traditional and modern Irish songs ranging from The Galway Girl and From Clare to Here, to the Corrs and Boyzone. Eimear Bradley on violin and penny whistle is outstanding, particularly on My Heart Will Go On and Danny Boy. However Duelling Banjos from the American film Deliverance, Dolly Partons Working 9-5 and John Denvers Country Roads are entertaining, but hardly Irish.
Conversely, Celtic Salsa is a brilliant mix of Irish precision and Latino passion.

Lighting effects are excellent and the pre-recorded narrative is very effective, although overhead projections of Ireland would deepen the feelings. This tremendous production has developed the popular Irish dance show genre, perhaps the addition of an Irish Compere/Comedian would add another delight?

A fantastic finale features the iconic Lord of the Dance and the stirring Irelands Call


Breathtaking
05/10/2009
Sarah Bridges - Marketing Manager - Fernham Hall, Fareham - October 2009

I went to the show with my partner, who is a fan of irish music and dance.
We both thought the show was breathtaking and a real spectacle, incredibly impressed.

What a hit
05/10/2009
Nick Scovell - Duty Manager - Fernham Hall, Fareham - October 2009

All went well, audience was very happy with the show - A massive hit.

Five Stars
05/10/2009
Carol Facer - Christchurch - October 2009

Great!
Totally five stars!

Fantastic
05/10/2009
Christine Tony Miles - Christchurch - October 2009

fantastic entertainment!!!!!!

Great Show
05/10/2009
Sandra - Deputy manager - Dunstable - October 2009

The show was veryimpressive. The audience were all mesmerised and happily clapping and joining in.
Stuart and the rest of the Management Team were great, really easy to get on with. Show ran smoothly and on time, no problems,I didreceive great comments of how fab the show was and how they enjoyed it.
The audience hoped it would be back next year to which I said that I am sure it would be as we have had it over the last few years with great success.


Wonderful Performance
04/10/2009
David Smart - Dunstable - October 2009

Wonderful performance and a fantastic show

Wonderfull
03/10/2009
Shirley Wheeler - High Wycombe - September 2009

Wonderfull

Excellent
03/10/2009
Bright Comerford - Dunstable - October 2009

Excellent as expected - Great show!

Brilliant Show
03/10/2009
Mr R Ward - Dunstable - Dunstable

A Brilliant show, making avery enjoyable evening.

Such energy
03/10/2009
C Marsh - Dunstable - October 2009

Such energy, very well choreographed and great musicians!!!!

Excellent Show
03/10/2009
Mrs Ann Ward - Dunstable - October 2009

Excellent show and a very memorable evening

Excellent
03/10/2009

Benjamin Coopman - Christchurch - October 2009
Better than Riverdance

Most enjoyable
03/10/2009
Mrs D Cameron - Fareham - October 2009

Excellent show, most enjoyable
Hope you come back next year!!!

Absolutely brilliant
03/10/2009
Carolyn Hymers - Fareham - October 2009

Absolutely brilliant, lead singer was brilliant and chasasmatic

Such energy
03/10/2009
Mrs Anna Palmer - Fareham - October 2009

Excellent show, such energy and enthusiasm

A Great Evening
01/10/2009
Katarayna Fabis - High Wycombe - September 2009

Thanks for a great evening - Good Luck!!!

Brilliant
30/09/2009
William Gilbert - High Wycombe - September 2009

Brillant!!!!!

Fast and Furious
30/09/2009
Steve Downing - High Wycombe - September 2009

Fast and furious with lots of sound and atmophere

fabulous
30/09/2009
Karen Higley - High Wycombe - September

fabulous

Very Enjoyable
29/09/2009
Mrs D Inns - Taunton - September 2009

Very Enjoyable

Great
29/09/2009
P J O'Brien - High Wycombe - September 2009

Great!

Really Super Show
29/09/2009
Patricia Grace - High Wycombe - September 2009

Really super show, proud to be Irish

So Good
28/09/2009
Mr M Winmill - Taunton - September 2009

So good, 2nd time I have watched the show, simly great.

Excellent
28/09/2009
Eileen Noctor - High Wycombe - September 2009

Excellent, Will go again

Excellent
25/09/2009
Matt Ravers - Taunton - September

Excellent!!!!!!

Out of this world
25/09/2009
Donna Inns - Taunton - September 2009

Out of this world!!

Brilliant Night at Wycombe Swan
24/09/2009

What a brilliant show, I'm in my 60's and probably would favour the more traditional Irish music to that of modern, however I went together with my wife and one of our grand daughters who does Irish Dance, we all enjoyed the show very much, my gand daughter liked the more modern stuff, I absolutly fell in love with your fiddler, very pretty and very talented, it seemed there was nothing that she could not do, fantastic show with something for everyone, could you include A Fairy Tale of New York? Absolutly love the hard shoe dancing, where do you all get your energy? Good Luck to you all and Thanks for a great night.
Nigel Eagling

Excellent
23/09/2009
Lin Hunt - Taunton - Sept 2009

Excellent, enjoyed the contempory twist

Absolutely Fab
23/09/2009
Mrs Marie Gilbert - High Wycombe - September 2009

Absolutely fabulous, just the right mix of traditional Ireland and modern music and dance.

Wonderful
23/09/2009
Maggie Cookson - High Wycombe - September 2009

Wonderful! great variety, beautiful music, fantastic dancing - loved the violin and the Irish pipe music

Thankyou!

Amazing
23/09/2009
Gavin Ford - High Wycombe - September 2009

I have watched RiverDance and Lord of the Dance and this show topped both of them, so entertaining, Thanks!!!

Fab
21/09/2009
Miss C Winmill - Taunton - September 2009

Simply Fab

What an excellent production
21/09/2009
Kevin Kennedy(Curly Watts, Cornation Street) - Blackpool - September 2009

last night I was privileged to be invited to the Essence of Ireland in blackpool,Ifound it to be an excellent production, professionally performed with an excellent mix of traditional and current music, featuring acompany of singers and dancers who would certainly not be out of place on any west end stage.How refreshing it is for a producer to have the courage to use a full live band whose talents added to a brilliant night that I would recommend toone and all.

Brilliant
20/09/2009
Angie - Taunton - September 2009

Brilliant, so talented

Fabulous
20/09/2009
Lin Keitch - Taunton - September 2009

Brilliant - fabulous - Just didnt think it could get better, but it does every time
Well done

Great
20/09/2009
David Malam - Taunton - September 2009

Great! I am tired out just watching and listening

Excellent
20/09/2009
Romie Macam - Taunton - September 2009

Excellent, Can I have a smoke bomb for the moles!!

The best
20/09/2009
Ger Murray - Taunton - September 2009

Me Mammy would have died at the skirts!!

Brilliant
20/09/2009
Diane Bussell - Taunton - September 2009

Fantastic! Brilliant! Excellent!!!!

Absolutely Brilliant
20/09/2009
Jane Foster - Taunton - September 2009

Absolutely Brilliant!!

Wonderful
20/09/2009
Linda Palmer - Taunton - September 2009

Lively, wonderful, Melodic, energetic, rythmic, enthusiastic, infectious, thoroughly entertaining, the true essence of ireland

Excellent
20/09/2009
Andrew Choffin - Taunton - September 2009

Excellent!!!!!


You cannot fail to be enchanted by this show - High Recommended
01/08/2009
Trish O'Driscoll - Irish World - August 2009

I CANT say my expectations were sky-high when I went recently to see the Irish dance, music and song extravaganza, Essence of Ireland at Londons New Players Theatre. Its not that it didnt sound like it would be a great night out - but there seem to be as many Riverdance-type shows around as Ive had hot dinners. Do we really need any more, I asked myself?
Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised to find that this show is entirely unique, not at all running off the back of any other Irish show out there. The name is certainly apt capturing the real essence of Ireland this 18-piece show, utilising 10 dancers and 8 musicians, is a breathtaking and heady mix of brilliant choreography, skilful musicianship, beautiful costumes and the kind of presentation that youd easily findon a Broadway show.
The Essence of Ireland sweeps the audience along with a kaleidoscope of colour and a backdrop of extremely infectious, high-octane live music throughout that had everyone tapping their toes. There were well-known songs we could all sing along to, and the endlessly energetic dancers gave us flavours of other genres, such as country, as well as Irish dance. Anyone, Irish or otherwise, that is a fan of quality music and dance cannot fail to be enchanted by this show highly recommended.

Essence of Ireland at Felixstowe, 06/06/09
I went to see the Essence of Ireland at Felixstowe with my mum. We went early and Kieran Cunningham came to see me before the show started. Whilst I was having my dinner I could hear them rehearsing through the closed door, I put a glass to the door to hear better it sounded really good.We went in to find our seats. A very nice lady and man let us swap seats, so I could see better in the front row. The show started and the dancers came on in their lovely clothes. The best dance I thought was when they danced with long sticks, dustbins and dustbin lids it was very noisy but I loved it. I liked Eimear Bradley when she played on her own, her dress was very sparkly. In the interval Nathan James and Liam Holmes signed my programme and my mum brought a cd, she plays it abit too much at home. In the second half Kieran sang a song for me and my mum. He kepted telling me to sing along but I didn't know the words. After the show I had my photo taken with Kieran. I really enjoyed the show and are hoping to go and see it again in the Autumn.

Jonathan, Age 8

The greatest Irish show since Riverdance

Mike Raymond - Theatre Director - BlackFriars

I have just witnessed what I think is the greatest Irish show since RiverDance. The entire show from start to finish is so full energy.

Straight from the off it held the entire theatre spellbound this was one of the best shows of its kind to appear at Blackfriars Theatre and I look forward to welcoming the show back in 2010.

Very well done

Superb Entertainment

Angela Brennan - Exmouth Journal

THE shimmering Essence of Ireland offered a lively blend of the traditional and contemporary at The Exmouth Pavilion on Thursday, April 16.

Energetic music and dance skirted from frantic fiddling, to dramatic dustbin banging; from cheeky cowboys clicking, to jubilant jiggers jumping.

The band and singers reeled the audience in with popular tunes, such as Irish Rover and Galway Girl, leaving them toe-tapping and clapping for more.

Twenty-year-old Nathan James - who appeared on the X Factor three years ago-captivated the crowd with both his powerful and his tear-jerkingperformances. A few members of the audience confessed to crying throughout his rendition of Danny Boy.

Lead male dancer Jamie Meek showed great flair - despite his legs jigging at an incredible speed, his smile and demeanour were that of a man taking a walk in the park. And female dancers, led by Eloise Shutler, moved with such grace and lightness that they appeared to float across the stage.

Colourful costumes - from the flamboyant to the more traditional - constantly adorned the stage and scenes flitted easily between the folk-like to the racy.

My only criticism was that the U2 tunes felt somewhat disjointed to the rest of the show and did not invoke either audience participation or emotion to the same degree as the other acts.

The tempo increased in the second half, culminating with the infamous Lord of the Dance. The crowd greeted the polished and engaging performances with a standing ovation.

It was Much loved by all

Lucinda Dennes - Duty Manager - Exmouth Pavilion

May I congratulate you on the success of The Essence of Ireland, it was much loved by all.

Fabulous

House Manager - Brindley Arts Centre - April 2009

The Show was fabulous and we can't wait to have it back.

Mark Ritchie – The Stage – April 2009

A voice-over extolling the lush green fields, purple mountains, echoes of poets and sad laments of Ireland and the Irish people helps to set the scene for this journey through Irish music and dance.

The show is quite racy in parts, particularly during a well thought out salsa meets Irish dance section.

Singer Nathan James and, in particular, a beautiful and gifted violinist/fiddle player, Eimear Bradley, are integral to painting such a vivid musical portrait.

A great lighting plot and a superb band are both well employed, as every imaginable piece of Ireland, the Irish people and the Irish music is played and danced to.

The split level stage set allows for the pace of the entrances and exits, and there is technical ability to admire amongst the dancers.

While using a live gigging band who work as a separate unit when not touring with this show, the band front man, the engaging and tuneful Kieran Cunningham, could have reached out to an audience which was clearly dying to be involved in some way, with a bit of the old craic.

Aside from the lack of audience contact, here we have a first-class mode of taking a River Dance-style show, putting it in a box and touring it to death.
Essence of Ireland is great for the 500 to 1,000-seat theatres.

The spectacle is certainly of exactly the correct stage proportions, with an extremely well choreographed troupe of boys and girls working hard to give the music its true meaning.

It is said there is never a bad seat in a Matcham house and the full dress circle clapped along merrily in this most wonderful of Frank Matcham houses.

With the addition of a bit more of the old blarney and some humour and audience contact, the Essence of Ireland show will be the complete package for all fans of the emerald isle.

The Marie Anderson School of Dance and Drama Ruislip, Beck Theatre, Middlesex April 1st.

The Essence of Ireland were delighted to be joined by the Marie Anderson School of Dance and Drama from Ruislip, who appeared at the Beck Theatre, Middlesex on April 1st.

Well done to the Marie Anderson Dance School.

Congratulations on a wonderful evening on Sat 21st March

Just a short note to say congratulations on a wonderful evening on Sat 21st March. It was a pleasure to have you all at the Orchard theatre on St Patrick's day week and the jubilant mood and celebration certainly seemed to continue throughout the evening. I wanted to say that not only did the audience thoroughly enjoy the evening but my staff too commented on what a fine show it was, and they are the toughest critics to impress, they didn't even want to come out for their breaks! The programme was very well put together with just the right balance between live music from the gifted group of musicians and the energetic, expert dance from your talented young troop. Everyone's feet were tapping in the auditorium, carried away by the uplifting energy of the night. There was plenty of good humour to the evening too and you brought a very welcome warmth and Irish charm to Dartford. I know that everyone's spirits were lifted in such current gloomy times. Once again thank you and I look forward to seeing you again next year.

David Hillman
House Manager - The Orchard Dartford
Great Review from the Plowright Theatre, Scunthorpe 13/03/09

'Essence of Ireland, you go along expecting a Celtic experience and what you get is a 'World' one with Ireland at its core. A great night with a range of Irish music from every era, class musicianship, exhilarating dance and choreography. Sounds fantastic; looks fantastic'.
.

Essence of Ireland

Essence of Ireland = Full House + Happy Audience and in this current economic climate - What more could I ask for" A very happy Rod Cameron, General Manager at Ferneham Hall, Fareham.

Skill of the Irish

Who needs to go to the West End when we have amazing shows on our doorstep?

Ferneham Hall has it all! Last night was worth every single penny I paid. What a wonderful mid-week treat.

The Essence of Ireland was a dynamic evening of sheer entertainment. Amazing dancers who had everyone in awe of their unique Irish dancing (and singing I may add). A standing ovation at the end!!

I have attended many shows this year at ferneham Hall, I applaud the management and staff for such wonderful, varied shows throughout the year.

I look forward to many more in the future – and only 15 minutes from home.

Ada Brodie
Harbour Tower
Gosport

Steppin Out Dance School in Blackpool joins cast of the Essence of Ireland in Blackpool (14/10/08)

I just thought I would write to you about a night out I organized for our dance school "The Sue Turner and Nicky Figgins Stage School" to see "The Essence of Ireland" at the North Pier on Tuesday 14th.

I really not to sure as to what to expect from this show, as I had heard nothing about it nor any reviews. As our dance school teaches Irish Dancing I thought it may be a good idea for them to see a proper live Irish show. On the night we were able to meet some of the dancers from the show. They really impressed our dancers with there costumes. The show it self was absolutely amazing. The theatre was overwhelmed with a true live Irish band, singing well known songs that had the audience clapping along. The Irish dancers themselves performed exceptionally with breathtaking choreography. With variations of Irish meets Stomp, Country and more. This is a show i would recommend to any person that loves Irish music and dance. They are back again on 28th October. This to me is a show not to be missed for truly wonderful night out of live music and dance. Pictured are a few of our Irish dance school pupils with cast members who are from Left to right "Susie Parsley ( Choreographer and dancer), Eloise Shutler ( Lead Female dancer ), Jamie Meek ( lead Dancer ) and Rachel Bury ( Dancer ).

John
Webmaster and organizer
The Sue Turner and Nicky Figgins Dance School Online
http://www.steppin-out.org

.. ..

The Essence of Ireland was a dynamic evening of sheer entertainment. Amazing dancers who had everyone in awe of their unique Irish dancing (and singing I may add). A standing ovation at the end!! ....

.. ..

I have attended many shows this year at ferneham Hall, I applaud the management and staff for such wonderful, varied shows throughout the year. ....

.. ..

I look forward to many more in the future – and only 15 minutes from home. ....

.. ..

.. ..

.. ..Ada.. .. Brodie ....

.. ..Harbour.. ..Tower.. .. ....

Gosport ....
Essence of Ireland

Essence of ..:namespace prefix="ST1" /> ..Ireland.. = Full House + Happy Audience and in this current economic climate - What more could I ask for" A very happy Rod Cameron, General Manager at Ferneham Hall, ..Fareham.. .

North Pier, Blackpool 14/10/08

"Hello my name is Catherine, i went to watch essence of ireland at blackpool north pier where i live and thought it was amazing. It was the best irish show i've seen and the choreography was outstanding. The cast were brilliant."

From Bispham village

Jaw Droppingly Good

Elenore Fisher - Cultural Services Manager - Civic Hall - Rotherham. The opening number was "jaw droppingly" good - and the standard didn't appear to falter throughout the performance. The rapport with the audience was excellent and the atmosphere up beat, warm and inclusive. The performers appeared to be really enjoying themselves - and their enthusiasm was infectious. All around me I could see people tapping their feet, clapping and singing along - all of which contributed to a good time had by all.
What a great show
Fan - Civic Hall - Rotherham I went along to the show with my parents - this was a mothers' day treat for my Mum - and we all thoroughly enjoyed the evening. I went home and spread the word to the rest of my family and now they all want to come next time! What a great show and I can't wait to watch it again.
What a show
Hayden Hughes - William Aston Hall - Wrexham What a fantastic show on saturday, simply first class. I look forward to having it back on 2009.
What an excellent show
Malcolm - Fan - Jersey Last night my partner and I went to see the Essence of Ireland in Jersey. What an excellent show! I have already recommended it to my friends in the UK so that thay can see the show when it tours this year. Please thank the cast for an excellent evening, I will certainly hope to see them in Jersey again soon.
A Right Old Song and Dance
Kathryn Lundy - Jersey Evening Post - March 2008. BEAUTIFULLY choreographed,perfectly performed and exceptionally well-received. Last night's performance of the Essence of Ireland, which shows again tonight at the Opera House, was impressive,and made more than the most of some of Ireland's finest talent. With a seven-piece traditional Irish band, a good selection of classic Irish music,modern Irish pop and rock and some fantastic vocals, the musical direction was superb, if not faultless. The dancing, too, was outstanding and despite numerous costume changes and a mish-mash of styles - from the classic Irish stepping to the dustbin lids and sticks - the 18-strong cast performed to exceptional standards. It wasn't what you'd expect from Michael Flatley - although the tour is on its second UK leg with upcoming shows in Asia, China and Singapore, it is not quite yet the world-conquering force that Riverdance was and which has spawned a thousand copies. The Essence of Ireland is, however, much better than a Riverdance copycat and, in fact, offers substantially more in the way of live music. Making use of some of Ireland's finest musicians and dancers, its attempt to carry The Spirit of Ireland - Ireland's first international success story - into a new era, with a blend of traditional Irish music and dance coupled with commercial Irish music of today, is largely successful. Of particular note was a stunning female violinist, with an equally stunning vocal range, an animated banjo player, two excellent principal dancers and a catalogue of good old Irish songs played to perfection. Classics A medley of modern music interspersed with some good classics is played by excellent musicians on whistles, keyboards and guitars with infectious energy and enthusiasm, setting the speed for a fast-moving and dramatic performance. Tell Me Ma, Whisky in the Jar, Dirty Old Town, Cockles and Mussels, Star of the County Down... they were all in there, as well as an upbeat Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For (U2), the old Boyzone favourite Picture of You and a medley of tracks by The Corrs. Perhaps the only disappointment was that it took a while for the audience to get going - but come the finale, the cast and crew went out to rapturous applause. Though it is perhaps not one for the Irish connoisseur, it is good fun It is well done and it is one that will, no doubt, be back in Jersey before too long.

For more reviews please visit
http://essenceofireland.theshowproviders.biz/

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