Celtic Tenors: Live in Concert (2006)

Some unlikely songs make it to the set-list of the Celtic Tenors when they perform. This show from a German tour offers viewers the chance to witness their inimitable renditions of songs such as Thin Lizzy's "Whiskey in the Jar" and the Irish standard "Danny Boy."System Requirements:Running Time: 80 MinutesFormat: DVD AUDIO Genre: MUSICALS/MUSICALS Rating: NR UPC: 842977082166 Manufacturer No: FMGDV8216 Product Description

Celtic Tenors:Live in Concert

Greetings, this is a mixed review as I want to review the CT: Live in Concert that was released in 2006. It's of the show done in 2002 in Hamburg, Germany and the main reason I obtained the DVD is I wanted to see if I wanted to make the effort to see the group perform in person.

Much of this show is in languages other than English, probably German is second major so it becomes a bit tougher to understand for those of us who a hearing issues. What else would you expect for a show done in Germany! As music is universal, the language shouldn't be an issue for most people.

The show opens with a performance by the Gaelforce Dance Troupe performing "Street Dance" with tap shoes. As my wife describes it to me, all the performers in her opinion are in the same class as the soloist that perform in Michael Flatley's shows. The routines cover the entire stage and seem so effortless, until you watch them getting their breaths.

This was followed by the first appearance of the Three Tenors as they perform "Whiskey in the Jar". The energy just comes across as they get the audience involved clapping with the quick paced song. Their stage movements match the energy of the song as they are constantly moving across the stage, changing leads, and leading the audience. Not a stiff moment standing around for these lads.

This is followed by the Gaelforce Dance Troupe again, only this time it is a modern dance routine done with ladies in soft shoe. The camera work covers them both at stage level and overhead, thus you get a different perspective than the audience saw. It is very pleasing to watch with the camera changing shots at a moderate rate, unlike some other celtic shows where you get a different picture with every couple of toetaps. Midpoint the gentlemen come on stage in classic tap shoes only to be joined by the ladies again but in their tap shoes as well.

The song "The Butterfly" performed by Mairead Mesbitt on the violin (fiddle for some) with a solo male dancer. She performs this with all the energy and skill that you see from her during her Celtic Woman performances. After watching this you might think there is something in the food or drink that gives the Irish an extra reserve of energy. How does one play at that level, while dancing and moving over the stage?

The ever lovely Deirdre Shannon performs her "Time to Say Goodbye" backed by the strings. The tune is familiar at the beginning but is sung in a couple of languages. She is so clear, smooth, and pleasant to listen to, not a note is strained and even with my old hearing I can understand all she says, and then the Tenors join her to finish the song.

Mid show the Tenors perform with the Vard Sisters and they perform a couple of songs with the Tenors as well as by themselves. All the performers are top quality and they truly seem to enjoy performing. The closing song is "Ireland", which will tug at everyone who still draws breath. The point where Matthew lays prone on the stage and bows in thanks to the musicians just speaks volumes about the fun they have with their shows.

Overall, if you are looking for something to remind you of the Tenors, buy the DVD. If you are looking for an outstanding show highlighting Irish Dancers, singers, and musicians; then buy the DVD. If you're a Deirdre Shannon fan needing a video fix of her performances, then buy the DVD!
March 16, 2007

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