Happiness and heartache in an electrifying celebration of Ireland

Set against the backdrop of Ireland, England and America in the 19th-century, Essence of Ireland tells the story of love, joy, happiness and heartache endured by Coro McGowen and Sean Dempsey as they are separated by emigration from each other and their beloved Ireland.

Based on true events, Essence of Ireland is set against the music and dance of Ireland, the USA and Spain.

With Irish classics such as ‘Galway Girl’, ‘Emigrant Eyes’, ‘Tell me Ma’, ‘Irish Rover’ along with original scores, Essence of Ireland comes billed as “the most complete Irish show in the world today”.

Ross Mills, director of production and co-writer of Essence of Ireland, said: “The Irish have a cultural identity like no other and that pride in their cultural identity, heritage and traditions, manifests itself in the global phenomenon that is St Patrick’s Day.

“The show aims to really capture that authentic Irish feeling and celebrate this infectious heritage, which is now shared by all cultures worldwide. It is so much more than just a dance show. It is a unique combination of music, song and dance that is locked together by a compelling storyline. The 2015 tour will include new costumes and new material so we are very excited about getting back on the road again.”

Creative director and co-writer Ged Graham said: “My Irish heritage is very special to me and really defines who I am. As an Irishman who has spent most of my adult life away from Ireland, I wanted to create a show that would give everybody an insight into being Irish.

“We set out to tell one man’s story that would really reflect the experience of every Irish man and woman who left Ireland’s shore and, most of all a story that the audience would relate to. This I believe is the reason behind the success of the show to date...and add to that the fact that us Irish folk don’t need an excuse for a party! It’s a great craic!”

Tickets on 01293 553636 and online at www.hawth.co.uk.