World-acclaimed Australian production Celtic Illusion is celebrating its 10 year anniversary with a special show combining the beauty of dance and the excitement of magic.
The production that fuses modern Irish dance and bewitching magic illusion will be showcased at the Moncrieff Entertainment Centre next month as part of a mammoth national tour.
Celtic Illusion stars the multi-talented former lead dancer of Lord Of The Dance and star illusionist Anthony Street, with Georgia May, a marvel in both dance and illusion.
The performers lead a cast of champion dancers recruited from renowned productions across the world.
Audiences will witness some of the fastest-ever tap dancing along with impossible magic, the only show of its kind in the world that combines these two art forms.
Illusionist Anthony Street was born and raised in Melbourne and grew up surrounded by motorbikes, racing cars, hunting and football before he first fell in love with Riverdance.
He said his love for magic also came quite early on in life, after he was inspired by a carnival magician performing at a local show.
“My grandfather was a singer and he was performing at this carnival and I happened to wander off and saw a magician, I was hooked instantly,” he said.
“I was about eight years old at the time.
“That Christmas I received my very own magic kit.”
With the assistance of his grandmother, he then began secretly taking Irish dancing lessons.
His commitment and talent eventually led him to audition for Lord Of The Dance where he was Principal Dancer for four-and-a-half years and the first Australian to perform the lead role.
“I actually never realised that dancing was going to become part of my profession,” he said.
“It started out as a hobby and began to grow from there.
“I wanted to then showcase my skills as a magician as well and decided to blend the two together for Celtic Illusion because I didn't think I would have enough in me in one lifetime to create two separate amazing shows!”
Celtic Illusion was created in 2011 and has gone from strength to strength.
Anthony said throughout his career he had performed in Bundaberg many times and was excited to get back to the region.
“I love to bring my production to everyone, right around Australia, whether it is regionally or in the big cities,” he said.
“The best part about performing this particular show is the response we get from the different audiences.
“Many people are quite touched and inspired after they see the show.
“I have even had proud parents say how excited their sons or daughters are to start tap dancing after watching the production- it is really great to be able to bring that emotion and inspiration to people.”
Anthony said those who were planning to attend the Bundaberg performance would be in for a treat.
“People can expect a high energy and fast-paced show with lots of variety,” he said.
“Celtic Illusion Reimagined is a celebration that we got through the pandemic and all the lockdowns and restrictions and the future is here!
“We are excited to be part of that new future.”
The Bundaberg performance will be held at the Moncrieff Entertainment Centre on Tuesday, 8 February at 7.30 pm.
Purchase tickets here.
