News 29. 3. 2010

World irish Dance finals kick off in Glasgow, Scotland

The lollapalooza celebration of Irish dance, heritage and culture brings together people from Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa and Australia.
Hundreds of entrants are taking part from the United States. Last year’s world titles were held in Philadelphia and were considered a massive success.
Glasgow was the location when an unknown 17-year-old called Michael Flatley from Chicago made his incredible first impression on the world stage in 1975 and Irish dancing has never looked back since.
Flatley made an appearance at the world championships last year in Philadelphia and there is an expectation that he will again show up at the 2010 version.
A highlight of the week will be Rubies and Rhinestone Ball at the Old Fruitmarket in Glasgow on Saturday April 3rd. This old historic building will be a fitting backdrop for the handing over of the Gold Trophy symbolizing the World Championships to the Mayor of South County Dublin, who will host in 2011.
Bob Winter, the Lord Provost of Glasgow, the local mayor, has welcomed all the dancers and their families and stated he is especially proud that Glasgow is the only city outside of Ireland to host the finals on more than one occasion.
Stay tuned for IrishCentral coverage and results over the coming week.

By JANE WALSHE
IrishCentral.com Staff Writer

Václav Bernard