A unique opportunity awaits locals looking to experience the majesty of Irish dancing, as a celebrated group of dancers are visiting Keystone with two performances on Friday, October 9th. The Armstrong Dance Troupe will be dancing live at 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. in the parking lot of the Ramada on Swanzey Street. Performances are free, but attendees are advised to arrive early to secure parking prior to the show.
Irish step dance is a traditional dance marked by its fast yet precise foot movements, while maintaining a relatively motionless upper body. This precision is amplified by multiple dancers–even the entire troupe–stepping perfectly in sync throughout the performance.
Thirty Irish dancers from all over the world comprise the Armstrong Dance Troupe—including dancers from Britain, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Most of their dancers come from the Carey Academy in England or the Maguire Academy here in the states, and range from 22 years old down to the youngest at just 4 years. Their lead dancer, Jude Flurry, has danced from six years of age, and competes regularly on the international stage, including the World Irish Dance Championships. Several other members of the troupe also compete at the international level, adding depth of skill to the troupe that is clearly evident on stage.
After their appearance in Keystone, the Armstrong Dance troupe will continue to Rapid City to present their full production, Celtic Throne. The performance follows the story of a music-and-dance-loving people from their beginnings in the ancient Near East, their foundations in Ireland, and their journey to Scotland, England, and finally America. The show is accompanied by music from Golden Globe-nominated composer Brian Byrne.
The tightly choreographed steps and breathtaking music combine into what is sure to be a memorable experience. The well-crafted costumes and innovative lighting and projection effects are a dazzling backdrop to the expertly choreographed dance. The show’s score evokes the mystical feel of Celtic Ireland, then seamlessly transitions through a large swath of history as the dancers travel to the new world.
Celtic Throne will perform in Rapid City with a 2 p.m. matinée showing on Sunday, October 11th, and a 7 p.m. show on Monday, October 12th. Tickets are available on the Celtic Throne website here, or on the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center Website here.