Atlantic Steps - The Show
Atlantic Steps is the inspiring epic story of Ireland’s oldest dance style, sean-nós. Centered around the vision of extraordinary Irish dancer Brian Cunningham and leading US choreographer Kieran Jordan, the show turns the focus back to an ancient dance style, revitalising steps originating from Ireland’s West Coast on a journey of intersection with new styles across the Atlantic .
The show, produced by Oisín Mac Diarmada, comprises an exceptional cast of dancers and musicians from both sides of the Atlantic, with specially-commissioned backdrop visuals from leading Irish artist Vincent Crotty, lighting design from Stephen Petrilli and projection design from Joey Frangieh. Unique within the genre of post-Riverdance Irish dance shows, Atlantic Steps continues to move festival and theatre audiences to their feet, playing an important role in the renaissance of sean-nós dance far beyond its Irish origins.
Following an exciting Summer 2012 festival debut at Dublin Irish Festival OH, Irishfest La Crosse WI and Irish Fair of Minnesota MN, the show went on to complete a highly successful 2013 run at PACs throughout Arizona, California, Kansas and Massachusetts. 2014 engagements have included shows in California, Wisconsin, Texas, Michigan, New Hampshire and Massachusetts, with 2015 bringing the show to new cities in Arizona, Florida and beyond.
Quotes
“The Michael Flatley of sean-nós dance” – Tonight with Miriam, RTÉ Television
“They were fantastic! Lovely group of individuals, polished, high energy show.” Denise Nelson Nash, Caltech, Pasadena, CA
“They were GREAT! Many compliments from our patrons. Great to work with.” Christian Wolf, Torrance PAC, CA
“It’s filled with outstanding dancers, great music and the compelling story it tells of this often overlooked style of Irish dancing is absolutely refreshing.” Daniel Neely, Irish Echo
“In the way that ‘Riverdance’ popularized Irish step dancing…’Atlantic Steps’ may help spread the excitement about sean-nós.” Karen Campbell, Boston Globe
“If you love Irish dance and find yourself overwhelmed by the seemingly never-ending stream of mod- ern dance extravaganzas, definitely do yourself a favor and check out Atlantic Steps.” Daniel Neely, Irish Echo