Éireann by A Taste of Ireland – Peacock Theatre, Holborn

Director: Brent Pace

Reviewer: Christine Stanton

“Enchanting & Energising“

4.5 / 5

Beautifully choreographed dancing, an enchanting score and a captivating journey through the history of Ireland. This is Éireann by A Taste of Ireland – an energising, collaborative show that celebrates the country in all it’s glory.

The level of skill from the dancers is mesmerising – stunning to watch their perfectly synchronised movements as they perfect their routines together in unison. There is an enjoyable level of variety and pairings within the dances also, ensuring each routine captures and maintains the attention required. Gavin Shevlin’s solo performance is impeccable, his footwork and stamina as he holds the crowds attention is outstanding. The routines that feature the entire ensemble either in a line, or broken off into pairs are also bewitching, with not a step out of place or break in momentum. The musical score is equally engaging – with fiddle player Megan McGinley, banjo player Eamonn O’Sullivan and Brian Ó Broin providing vocals. The ethereal music is a wonderful accompaniment to the dances, with an enjoyable mix of traditional folk songs and well-known popular Irish songs to rouse the audience.

Unless well-versed with Irish history or traditional tales, the intricacy within the narrative of Ireland’s story may feel slightly lost at points – moments such as the arrival of the Vikings, the Great Famine and the Easter Rising are all referenced, some with a brief voiceover, others solely using dance and costume to relay the triumphs and tragedies of the nation. But even if you don’t completely understand the historical aspects, it doesn’t detract from the incredible show, and the championing of Ireland as a whole. Cheeky Irish humour is sprinkled in throughout the few speaking sections, the classic Irish songs are immediately and warmly recognisable, the dancing is of course incredible and the gorgeous visuals from both set (Justin Williams) and costume design (Jacki Cottom) ensure that everyone can enjoy this wonderful show.

The silence in the theatre other than the hypnotising sound of the toe-tapping talent from these incredible performers says it all, the audience holding their breath, enraptured by the enthralling routines, bursting into monumental applause the moment each segment ends, before a new scene begins and they are transfixed once more.

Runs until 31st August 2025