Michael Flatley, the iconic dancer who revolutionized the world of Irish dance, has shifted his focus from the stage to a variety of creative endeavors. Known for his groundbreaking performances in “Riverdance” and “Lord of the Dance,” Flatley retired from dancing, citing the physical demands of the art form. “I had a lot of miles on me,” he reflects. “Very, very, very few dancers ever dance past 30 years old. I didn’t actually get my start in the business until I was 35. And I miss it to this day.”
Since stepping away from the spotlight as a performer, Flatley has embraced roles as an impresario, mentor, and entrepreneur. His current projects reflect a diverse array of interests, from producing shows to creating art. He describes his cast of dancers as “danceletes,” athletes at the peak of physical perfection who meditate and practice yoga together. “The men are cut and ripped,” he says, “The women are beautifully sculpted.”
The Transition to Impresario
Flatley’s transition from dancer to impresario has been marked by a commitment to delivering joy through entertainment. “I’m in the joy business,” he explains. His shows are designed to be accessible and family-friendly, aiming to bring happiness to audiences worldwide. “When people come to my show – and a lot of the husbands probably get dragged to the show – they might have had a bad week or a bad day, but by the end they’re all happy, tapping their feet, clapping, and they go home humming a tune. And that’s a good place to be.”
This philosophy underscores Flatley’s broader approach to his career. He seeks to eliminate barriers between performers and audiences, creating an inclusive atmosphere that appeals to a wide demographic. The shows are not just about dance but about creating a shared experience that resonates emotionally with viewers.
Exploring New Creative Ventures
Beyond the stage, Flatley has ventured into various artistic and business pursuits. His interests range from launching a whiskey brand to recording a flute album and creating abstract paintings. Remarkably, he paints by dancing across a canvas with paint-covered shoes, a method that combines his love for dance with visual art.
In 2018, Flatley took on the film industry with “Blackbird,” a spy movie he financed, wrote, directed, produced, and starred in. While critics dismissed it as a vanity project, Flatley remains undeterred. His self-belief and willingness to take risks are evident in every project he undertakes. “You don’t get to his position without the absolute self-belief required to get past the occasional misstep,” he asserts.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Michael Flatley’s influence on the world of dance is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of performers. His transition to other creative fields demonstrates a relentless pursuit of passion and a refusal to be confined by past successes. As he continues to explore new ventures, Flatley’s work ethic and enthusiasm remain as strong as ever.
The announcement of his retirement from dance marked the end of an era, but it also heralded the beginning of a new chapter filled with diverse artistic expressions. Flatley’s journey serves as a testament to the power of reinvention and the enduring impact of creativity.
Looking ahead, Flatley shows no signs of slowing down. His ability to adapt and innovate ensures that his contributions to the arts will continue to evolve, captivating audiences and inspiring fellow artists worldwide.
