'Lord of the Dance' a step above the rest

Michael Flatley's "Lord of the Dance" filled the 1,000 seat New York-New York showroom for its 9 p.m. performance Thursday. A typical, diverse Las Vegas audience rewarded the spirited company with rapt attention, enthusiasm, frequent applause and several standing ovations. Based on very old Irish Celtic folklore, it tells the story of the Lord of the Dance being challenged by Don Dorcha and his Warriers, good vs. evil, with good finally emerging triumphant.

Conor Smith does well as Lord of the Dance, previously played by Flatley. Declan Bucke is quite menacing and properly evil as Don Dorcha. Saoirse, the good girl in white, is Gwenna Saunders, while Catriona Hale, the gypsy in red, sizzles as Morrighan, the bad girl. The Little Spirit, defended by the Lord of the Dance and, later, his ally, is portrayed by Ashling Dunney.

Rosemary Collier as Erin, The Goddess, resplendent in green, sings four songs as an interlude between action scenes. One selection, "Carrickfergus," is an Irish folk classic. Breda Smyth and Athena Tergis, violin duo, add fire to the scenes they are in. Flatley has assembled a large, attractive, and talented ensemble.

Ronan Hardiman's music is an equal contributor throughout. Jonathan and Cheryl Park's scenic design and Patrick Woodroffe's lighting are noteworthy. Flatley settles for creation, production and direction credits; he's present even while absent.

"Lord of the Dance," in its way, is as different as "Mystere" at Treasure Island. Each transcends categorization; each is true to its origins; both are superb entertainments. Both could run into the next century.

JOE DELANEY is a Sun entertainment critic.

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