Rhythm in the Night, the Irish dance spectacular, left the audience spellbound this past St. Patrick’s Day

What a night to hear the rhythm that left the audience mesmerized on the Luhrs Preforming Arts Center stage last Tuesday. The impeccable timing, glorious technique and the orchestral sound flooded the venue.

The show made me fall in love with Irish dance, all over again. I was enchanted all throughout the show. It certainly breaks rules with tradition. Justin Boros, the lead dancer and producer, wanted to tell a story through Irish dance.

Boros started late as an Irish dancer, having taught himself at the age of 15. He learned all of the footwork that was on “Lord of Dance” because it inspired him. He then decided to audition for the show.

When he was a part of “Lord of the Dance,” he came up with the idea of “Rhythm in the Night.” After 12 long years, he finally made his dream into a reality and it was such a pleasure to see it on stage.

Along with the dancing comes the story. In the beginning, you see that there are two forces, good and evil. The evil force is reigning over the kingdom by one fierce leader Azura. She has put a spell on Balor and there is no hope for harmony within the kingdom. The good force must get Balor back on their side.

During the show, what really fascinated me was that when both sides were clashing, you could hear a difference in their steps. The evil force was more demanding and heavy, but for the good, it was powerful, yet light. One of the numbers was acapella, and every tap and rhythm was impressive.

By the show’s end, Balor gets redemption and the spell is broken. Azura’s master plan was defeated. The kingdom was in working harmony.

Also, during the show, I really enjoyed when the females were in softshoe. Their leaps and technique were outstanding. Certain moves like the bicycle leap, rock rock rocks and the birdie leap were to perfection.

The dancers of the show are from all over the world, including countries such as the U.S., Russia and the Czech Republic. The majority of the dancers have been to World Irish Dance Championships. This is pretty much the equivalent to the Olympics, but for Irish dance.

It was inspiring that I had the chance to talk to them about touring, as well as going to Worlds. It was so insightful to get their aspect of going to Worlds, for some of them said that the best part of going was seeing people from all over the world compete in the same thing that they absolutely enjoy. It was a night where the rhythm never stopped. 

Share