WALKING in to the Liverpool Empire Theatre to for the opening night performance of Michael Flatley’s ‘Lord Of The Dance; Dangerous Games’, I felt sudden empathy for the humble salmon that bravely battle their way upstream.

Never before have I been part of such a throng of determined theatre-goers, all heaving their way towards an auditorium already crammed full with dance fans eagerly anticipating the new production of the Irish dance sensation.

The foyer jostled with hundreds of attendees, flooding out from lines of coaches that had travelled from afar to bring them to the show, and as I tried to squeeze my way through to my seat it suddenly became clear I was about to see not just a stage show but the latest incarnation of an epic, global phenomenon.

Following a sold-out run at the London Palladium, this new production visits the Empire as part of a 200-plus date tour that will see its 40 dancers, singers and acrobats visit 15 countries over the next 18 months.

Promising ground-breaking new technology including holograms, dancing robots, spectacular special effects and the greatest team of Irish dancers in the world, the production aims to fuse traditional choreography with visceral, high-octane staging. And it doesn't disappoint.

Director Michael Flatley’s troupe of sensational dancers own the Empire stage, pounding and gliding to the throbbing, live music expertly scored by composer Gerard Fahy.

The eye-popping digital backdrop is the perfect setting for the colourful, glittering costumes which dazzle in the theatre lights with every kick, tap, leap and lift.

Slick and in sync at all times the sensational cast, which features Formby-born Jennifer Murray, hold their devoted audience in the palm of their hands as they perform the steps that have become so familiar and beloved to dance fans across the world.

Rapturous applause follows every routine and the cast respond with energy and verve to every new standing ovation.


 

The Lord Of The Dance phenomenon has spawned a legion of fans who have understandably fallen under the spell of this high energy, high-kicking franchise and the astonishingly talented performers who bring the breathtaking Irish art form to life.

Sitting there amongst them all in an auditorium that seethed with energy, electricity and adulation I could see and feel why they are so in its thrall.

It’s an eye-popping, goosebump-inducing, breathtaking barnstormer of a show that will live long in the memory of all those lucky enough to see it.

And I know that when it next visits Liverpool I’ll be firmly amongst the masses, jostling and hustling my way through the theatre doors to experience the next electrifying version.

Just like the little salmon battling its way upstream, my leap of faith proved fruitful; join the masses making the journey and catch it while you can.

FIVE STARS

'Lord Of The Dance; Dangerous Games' playes at Liverpool Empire Theatre until Saturday May 2. For more information or to book tickets call 0844 871 3017 or visit atgtickets.com/liverpool