Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games at the Bristol Hippodrome Review
Lord of the Dance:
Dangerous Games
Bristol Hippodrome
12-16 May 2015
Reviewed by Lora Hole
I have always wanted to see one of Michael Flatley’s shows so I was really excited to have the opportunity to see Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games on opening night at the Bristol Hippodrome. I have seen him dancing on TV before but never knew how his style of Irish dancing could fit into a show. Although Michael Flatley didn’t star in this show he was the mastermind behind this clever use of dance. Some people may be disappointed that Michael does not appear regularly in his newest show however his new protégé, Morgan Comer, hit the spot.
We love going to the Bristol Hippodrome as it’s an intimate sized traditional theatre so you’ve always got a good view. The theatre is always kept clean and tidy and there are plenty of friendly staff so there’s someone to help if required. There are several car parks nearby but we’ve always found the Trenchard Street car park behind the Colston Hall to be the best priced at £2.50 for the evening if you arrive after 6pm and only a 2 minute walk from the theatre entrance.
The show is based on the dream of Little Spirit in which the Lord of the Dance must battle the Dark Lord to retain his title. It is a story of good versus evil played out in the form of Irish dance. The show includes a mixture of Michael Flatley’s classic moves and an elegant, ballet style twist on Irish dancing. The skill involved is incredible with several wow moments. Morgan Comer was brilliant as Lord of the Dance, his dancing and speed was unbelievable. Tom Cunningham played the Dark Lord wonderfully and, alongside his crew, were fantastically menacing. The large troupe of dancers were excellent throughout the show never failing to impress.
We were surprised that the show also contained singing by Rachel O’Connor, who some may remember as one of Kylie Minogue’s girls on The Voice 2014, and violinist duo Giada Costenaro Cunningham and Eimear Reilly. The girls all did an excellent job and it was a great way to give the dancers a well-deserved break between their extremely energetic routines.
The Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games is created, produced, directed and choreographed by Michael Flatley and is show he can truly be proud of. My favourite parts of the show were the big group dances when the entire cast performed classic Flatley routines. Experiencing the sight and sound of the fast-paced, skilful, loud, in sync dancing is breath-taking. I enjoyed myself so much I couldn’t believe it when it was over as the time flew by. Whether you are a regular to Michael Flatley’s shows or have never been to one before and only ever watched him on TV like me, I recommend you see this one as it is even more spectacular in person. I will definitely be in the queue to buy tickets for Michael Flatley’s next tour!
Tickets cost from £24.90 to £48.40 (plus £4 transaction fee).
Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games is at the Bristol Hippodrome until 16 May 2015. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 3012.
Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, Bristol, BS1 4UZ | 0844 871 3012