When Eileen Ivers takes the stage Thursday at the Lyric Opera House, she and her band, Immigrant Soul, along with the Children?s Choir of Maryland and the Teelin School of Irish Dance, will capture the spirit and magic of the season in her lavish production “An Nollaig ? An Irish Christmas.”
“This is definitely a family show,” said Ivers. “We will explore what an Irish Christmas really is through music and dance.”
And if there is one thing Ivers knows, it?s Irish music and dance. A seven-time Ireland fiddle champion, best selling recording artist, and star of the original “Riverdance,” she is the world?s pre-eminent exponent of the Irish fiddle.
Not bad for a mathematics major who, at one time, dreamed of working at NASA. That was until the day she picked up the fiddle.
“Living in New York, there were lots of opportunities to meet musicians and learn an instrument,” said Ivers, who grew up in the Bronx as the daughter of Irish immigrants. “I?ve had no formal education; I play by ear, and find it a privilege to touch people with my playing.”
In 1999, Ivers established a touring production to present the music that now encompasses Eileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul. The group successfully mixes African and Latin percussion and bass, Irish instrumentalists, and soulful American vocals in a unique repertoire that has been performed with numerous symphonies and in major festivals worldwide.
For the Christmas show, the group?s repertoire includes traditional Irish tunes, contemporary carols and carols dating back to the 12th century, the Wexford Carol being a personal favorite of Ivers.
Maureen Berry, owner and director of the Teelin School of Irish Dance leads her students in traditional step dancing to the refrains of the Children?s Chorus of Maryland. Both groups were invited by Ivers to help share in the musical celebration. Proceeds from the concert benefit the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra.
“We are excited to bring an international artist such as Eileen Ivers and also include local talent,” said Gabe Purviance, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra?s executive producer.
IF YOU GO
Eileen Ivers: An Nollaig ? An Irish Christmas
» Venue: Lyric Opera House, 140 W. Mount Royal Ave., Baltimore
» Time: 7:30 p.m. Thursday
»Tickets: $30 to $60; 410-547-SEAT or www.ticketmaster.com
