Celtica

There is something undeniably entrancing about Celtic dance. A combination of the sound of quick feet in perfect rhythm, redolent music and angular formations that hypnotise their audiences, ready to be lured into the depths of folklore.

Thanks to the fever of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance becoming cultural icons in the 1990’s, just a mention of Celtic Dance provokes a visceral nostalgia.

By Hannah Muir

From the producers of Celtic Illusion, which has caused a global stir since 2011, Celtica brings its high energy, modern Irish dance show to Alice Springs.

Georgia May was one of the many, many kids that sat in front of their televisions completely spell-bound by the magic of Celtic dance during the Riverdance era. At that point in her life, a studious ballerina, May quickly changed directions.

“It was unlike anything I had seen. I think my mum thought I was going to be a prima ballerina with the Australian Ballet, but I definitely had other ideas as soon as I saw Irish dancing.”

May is now a lead performer of both Celtica and Celtic Illusion, in the excellent company of an elite troupe of dancers including stars of Riverdance, and says the distinctive unison and iconic sound that is synonymous with Irish dancing is what drew her in.

“Everyone must make the same sound at the same time, and dance to a time signature which is quite unique … And not just the same thing over and over and over again – there’s hundreds of thousands of different sounds you can make as an Irish dancer.”

Don’t miss this talented troupe made up of dancers from across the globe, as they storm the stage at Araluen Arts Centre in a high octane showcase.

Celtica
WHEN FRI 24 MAR | 7.30PM
AT ARALUEN ART CENTRE
COST $85-$90
INFO araluenartcentre.nt.gov.au

Photos: Guy Cleeve