EVER since the flashing Flatley feet whirled their way across stages around the world Irish dance and music has grown in popularity.

Michael Flatley’s brilliant Riverdance set the standard some years ago when it first appeared during the interval at the Eurovision Song Contest and received huge acclaim and rave reviews.

This happened during the seven-minute interval of the 1994 contest at the Point Theatre in Dublin on April 30 and since then there have been numerous spin-offs. Their longevity and popularity is borne out by the fact they are still touring with various shows some 22 years on.

Coming to the county later this week will be another Irish dance spectacular show, Rhythm of the Dance, which will be at Malvern’s Festival Theatre for one night only - Friday, July 1.

The two-hour dance and music extravaganza will provide a wealth of Irish musical talent as it relives the journey of the Irish Celts throughout history in an inspiring epic.

The show has heralded a new era in Irish entertainment and its internationally rated as one of the most popular and busiest Irish step dance shows in the world.

It features a live band, three tenors and more than 20 dancers - all of whom will provide a special night at the theatre.