Ireland sure is hot these days when it comes to the performing arts. First there was Riverdance, which introduced the ancient art of Irish dance to the masses; now Celtic Crossroads is taking Irish music to a whole new level. The show incorporates seven world-class musicians, who between them play more than 20 instruments. The band touches on a number of musical genres, including Eastern European gypsy, bluegrass, classical, jazz, and various forms of Celtic from around the globe.
The group’s name comes from a time in Ireland before the local pub became the traditional meeting place. Then, residents of neighboring communities would gather at the crossroads between villages to socialize. If those gatherings were anywhere near as raucous a good time as audiences seem to have at Celtic Crossroads concerts, then it was well worth the trip. Magical interludes from the haunting uilleann pipes and Irish harp are mixed with pulsating rhythms that lead to a foot-stomping good time by all. Throw in true high-stepping by some of Ireland’s best-known dancers, and you’ve got one hell of a show.
March 16 at 7:30 p.m. Admission: $30. The Egg, Empire State Plaza, Albany. www.theegg.org
