Dancing Alongside the Bothy Band in a Throwback to 1975: Michael Keegan-Dolan's Performance
In the picturesque West Kerry Gaeltacht, a captivating dance-theatre production titled 1975 Naoi Seachtó Cúig is set to take centre stage from August 27th to September 7th at An Ghlaise Bheag. This intimate production, created by renowned Irish choreographer and theatre director, Michael Keegan-Dolan, promises to be a unique and immersive experience.
1975 Naoi Seachtó Cúig (translated as "1975 Nine Seventy-Five") is a thought-provoking exploration of Ireland's historical and cultural moment in the mid-1970s, a period marked by significant social and political change. The piece weaves together dance, theatrical performance, and evocative imagery to delve into themes of memory, identity, and the layered experience of Irish life during that time.
The performance involves five dancers, five chairs, and sharp suits, creating a minimalist yet impactful stage setup. The unforgettable soundtrack, set to the music from the 1975 album by The Bothy Band, adds a nostalgic and poignant dimension to the production.
Michael Keegan-Dolan's works are known for their ritualistic and poetic quality, drawing from Irish folklore and mythology while addressing modern existential themes. The performance will be presented at Teaċ Daṁsa's studio in the West Kerry Gaeltacht, a location that has shaped the work, providing a vibrant setting for performances deeply rooted in Irish identity.
An Ghlaise Bheag, the location for the performance, is a Gaeltacht area known for its strong Irish-speaking community and rich cultural heritage. The performance connects the audience with Irish language and rural landscape traditions, enhancing the storytelling through the physicality of dance and minimalist theatrical elements.
RTÉ Arena recently interviewed Michael Keegan-Dolan about 1975 Naoi Seachtó Cúig. Listen to the interview above for more insights into the production. For more information about the performance, visit the provided link. Don't miss this opportunity to experience a captivating fusion of contemporary dance, theater, and Irish culture.
The unforgettable soundtrack, set to the music from the 1975 album by The Bothy Band, adds a nostalgic and poignant dimension to the production, making it a unique blend of entertainment and music. Michael Keegan-Dolan's works, with their ritualistic and poetic quality, often intertwine dance, theater, and even Irish mythology, thus creating an enjoyable mixture of entertainment and a deep dive into Ireland's cultural history.
