Rhythm of the Dance

The Irish Riverdance phenomenon has spawned a great many imitators, and this turn-of-the-millennium performance featuring the National Dance Company of Ireland filmed live on tour in Paris must be numbered among them. The troupe performs a succession of some 20 Celtic dance numbers--a few showcasing singers as well, and all featuring a variety of instrumentalists--with titles such as “Tell Me Ma” and “Molly.” One has to admire the energy and skill on display, as well as the company's obvious eagerness to please, but the truth is that for many viewers a little of this sort of thing goes a long way, and Rhythm of the Dance isn't sufficiently distinctive enough to stand out in the post-Riverdance world (in fact, the response from the French audience here is relatively tepid; at times the whoops of support that members of the company shout to one another are louder than the applause). Aficionados of Celtic music and dance will still appreciate this, however, so consider it a strong optional purchase. Aud: P. (F. Swietek)