By the looks of things, RTE is on to a winner with the upcoming TV series Gael force, which they are taping this week in the Point. Theatre. That is, presuming they can capture the raw appeal of groups like such as Afro Celt and Altan on camera.
The Gael Force concerts also saw Riverdance make a welcome return to the Point stage. Moya Doherty's Irish dancing phenomenon is celebrating its 1,000th performance today with simultaneous shows from the two troupes in Birmingham and Boston.
Backstage, lead dancer Colm O'Shea said he never imagined he would ever step into Michael Flatley's shoes when he performed in the chorus during the now legendary Eurovision slot. Female lead Joanne Doyle, looking like a young Meryl Streep, confided that she was never so nervous in her life stepping on the Point stage for what was her first time.
Enjoying a sort of reunion backstage was former Riverdance leading danceuse-turned-actress Jean Butler, accompanied by her sister, Cara. Actor Sean McGinley was also spotted.there, and Donal Lunny chatted about his soundtrack for This Is My Father, the film by the Quinn brothers, Aidan, Joe and Paul. and a sister - who? check Brian Kennedy, looking as healthy and handsome as ever, said he was looking forward to his Irish tour, which kicks off on Monday. Not feeling particularly too healthy comfortable was Mary Kennedy, who had just received had her jabs for her trip to Calcutta to cover Mother Teresa's funeral for RTE: she had hepatitis left arm, typhoid right arm and malaria bum, she said.
As Riverdance turns 1,000, executive producer Julian Erskine revealed that the show is booked solid for the next two years and is the biggest-selling show in the world.
It is also a soaraway success in the love stakes. There are 16 Riverdance couples, he said, including six engagements and one wedding. Breaking up could prove very hard to do.