My overall impression
The Irish lass Maire Clerkin grew up in London – and for anyone who’s familiar with British politics knows the cultural tug-of-war is enough to make and child stuck in the middle a bit jaded. Growing up with a workaholic Irish dance teacher for a mother, Clerkin was determined to win the praise of her mother. She had great feet and wonderful height but there was just one problem: her right arm. It never stayed down. Thus she shares with us a wayward life stuck in between two cultures and never becoming the star Irish dancer she longed to be.
Clerkin is a natural performer. Her wit and self-deprecating humor is both hysterical and heartfelt. From the young child who earnestly seeks attention, to the innocent teenager and her first snog, to the grown woman who decides to become an adjudicator – Clerkin dances her way into your heart. Directed by Dan O’Connor, the simple staging with the mixture of dancing, projected photos and music wonderfully aids Clerkin’s flawless and magnetic stage presence. Funny, unique and Irish dancing – definitely a must see.
