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The majesty of dance and illusion comes to life on stage

Celtic Illusion; the magic of dance performed at the South Okanagan Events Centre.
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Illusion flautist Connor Hoy, one of the troupe’s solo musicians, performs at the opening of the show.

The marrying of music, magic and majestic dance that is Celtic Illusion came to Penticton’s South Okanagan Events Centre on Feb. 29.

Fittingly a leap year, the show’s founder and lead performer, Australian Anthony Street, and his cast more than lived to their advance billing of high-stepping dance and much more.

The energetic and precise footwork of Irish tap intertwined with martial-arts-to-music moves with a slice of life on the street, had a little something for everyone.

Add in a sprinkle of pixie dust courtesy of Street’s unique illusionist ability, interspersed throughout the evening, left those in attendance gasping for more.

READ MORE: The marrying of magic and dance – Celtic Illusion

Apart from the co-ordination of all the dancers, one of the show’s highlights was the second-half performance of duelling dance steps of Street and his percussionist.

Created in 2011, Celtic Illusion has travelled extensively down under and for the first time this year has broadened its horizon’s to Canada.

For Street, a late bloomer when it came to Irish dance, he reached the enviable achievement of performing the leading role that Irish-American Michael Flatley of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance fame once performed.

When he decided to go out on his own, it was a marrying of magic and dance that was his direction, a path and passion he continues to follow.


 

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Celtic Illusion dancers finish their routine.
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Dancers combine to bring the magic of Celtic Illusion to life. (Mark Brett - Western News)
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Illusion violinist and vocalist Caitlin Hornik performs one of her solo pieces.
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Anthony Street and Georgia May prepare for one of the grand illusions. (Mark Brett - Western News)
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A wayward flames escapes from Anthony Streets little box of tricks. (Mark Brett - Western News)
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Anthony Street leads some of male cast members in a lively performance.
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One of Celtic Illusion’s more powerful dance solos was by Georgia May during the on-stage performance Saturday at the South Okanagan Events Centre.
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Anthony Street and his lead Georgia May perform one of the unique dance routines that make Celtic Illusion an incredible show.
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