Irish Cream

Ireland has developed a strong modern dance community, putting dance on a par with its artistic energies in literature, poetry, theatre, film and music. This spring, true to the Festival's mission of presenting the finest examples of contemporary practice in world-wide arts, MIFA will bring audiences a taste of what's new in Irish dance with IRISH CREAM, a triple bill of works by three acclaimed contemporary Irish dance companies and choreographers, the first time these works will be seen in America. The three pieces are:

Fearghus OConchuir's duet called Match, performed by Mathew Morris & Fearghus O'Conchuir, original music by Iarta 0 Lionaird. Originally created for dance on film at Croke Park, Ireland's iconic Gaelic sports stadium, it is about physical contest. In relationships as well as battle one person always emerges stronger.

Nick Bryson and Damian Punch in Hanging In There from Legitimate Bodies Dance Company, devised, created and performed by Nick Bryson & Damian Punch. The Good Friday Agreement is deconstructed and served up with some pretty fancy moves. An ironic and funny response to all political negotiations everywhere.

Rex Levitates's Shared Material on Dying, Liz Roche, choreographer. This trio/solo dance explores the idea of the passing of a moment, not necessarily significant or dramatic but which becomes so when significance or drama is assigned to it.

Match has recently played at The Place in London and, alongside the other two pieces, last August in Edinburgh.

Shared Material on Dying, Hanging In There and Fearghus' new piece, Niche, played at the Capital Nights Festival last October as part of the Liverpool European Capital of Culture 2008 programme.

Hanging In There has since been selected for the opening weekend of Aerowaves.

Hanging in There and Match received raves at this year's Edinburgh Festival and Shared Material when it debuted at this Fall's Liverpool Festival.

IRISH CREAM will appear as a featured event of Holyoke's 2009 St Patrick's Day Parade Week. IRISH CREAM is supported by a grant from Culture Ireland, part of MIFA's ongoing goal to forge international artistic relationships with countries responsible for Holyoke's ethnic diversity.

IRISH CREAM artists will work with Holyoke Public School students through the Connections program and all Holyoke Public School students with their families are invited to attend the performance for the student rate of $9.

The War Memorial Auditorium, 310 Appleton Street, Holyoke, MA, Friday, March 20th at 7 pm General admission: $18, students, $9

Special Irish Cream cocktails by Brennan's Place, Ho1yoke available at theatre, starting at 6pm (cash bar)