In his book 'Divine Beauty' John O'Donohue wrote - "When passion of feeling and technical brilliance come together, the beauty can be devastating and transfiguring." His words have proved true for millions of those who have seen Michael Flatley perform on stage, and for many, from all corners of the world, somehow a spark is lit in their lives and their existence is permanently transformed and enriched. When they go on to hear Michael speak of his beliefs and philosophy for life, the connection becomes literally life-changing. Others may have spoken similar words, encouraging people to believe in themselves and in their dreams, to never give in, be determined and work hard, but perhaps it is the rare combination of extreme strength with a radiance of gentleness and giving that causes his message to touch those who have not been touched before.
Although he has set out to be an artist and creator of dance, and likes to say he is 'in the joy business', he also delivers, in subtle ways, powerful messages of peace, of love for all people, of hope in darkest hours, and while honouring the memories of the past he promotes very strongly the need to move forward positively into the future. His deep love of children, and his caring compassion for all those facing adversity and challenge, is clear to all who meet him even for the briefest time. His warmth and love of life glow every time he opens his arms in welcome to child and adult alike, and for all the fiery energy he exudes on stage, offstage those who meet him speak of sensing an inner serenity and grace.
On this page, it is intended to share some individual stories from people whose lives have been touched significantly by Michael. Children have been inspired to conquer illness and disability, adults to regain hope and begin life afresh, to take the risk of starting new businesses, to meet their fear of leaving home to travel the world and make friends... the list is endless and endlessly varied. New stories surface almost every day, some small, some great, but all remarkable. More will be added here as they are gathered, so please return...
"I was in a deep dark hole, and you[Michael] came and lifted me out"
This
is the unique story of a lady now known to thousands around the world, variously,
as 'Jeannie Mama Pea', 'Mother Perfect' and 'The Fairy Godmother'
The
story of Veronica from Canada, who overcame all the odds
to live life as
no-one believed she could.
In July 2000, when 'Feet of Flames' Cleo was taken to see the show for her birthday. She did not know then that she was a 'birthday twin' with the creator and star, Michael Flatley, whose name and work were new to her, but that single evening changed everything for her, and life would never be the same again. She found herself totally inspired, and gained such belief in life's possibilities that she and her husband are now soon to open their dream hotel in beautiful wine country in Germany. Here is her story of that adventure, which will be updated through 2006.
He
went from shy school boy to amatuer Irish dancer, web designer and writer
through
the inspiration of Michael Flatley.
The night after the 2005 US/Canadian tour of Celtic Tiger ended in Fairfax, New Hampshire (November 26th) Michael met up with his old friends The Chieftains, to help open Matt Malloy’s latest Irish pub – The Shashkeen, in Manchester, Massachusetts. Here is a special account of the evening, from one lucky aficionado of Irish music who was there.
VARIETY CLUB ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LUNCH 2001
Each year in London, the Variety Club charity group holds a fundraising gala lunch, with celebrity guests, entertainment and charity raffle. In December 2001 the guest of honour, who is traditionally someone they wish to acknowledge for their contribution to childrens' causes, was Micahel Flatley. That was exciting enough, but what Michael - and most people there - did not know, was that many of his personal Dublin friends had been invited along as well, to be there to see him also honoured by the IrishDance commission, An Comisiun na Rince Gaelacha. He was made the first ever Fellow of the Commission, for his outstanding contribution to the world of Irish Dancing.
On Thursday, January 15th, 2004 at UCD (University College, Dublin) Michael was presented with Honorary Life Membership of the Law Society and took part in their boxing debate. Before the house was the proposal 'This house would ban boxing!' and about six or eight students spoke, plus guest speakers, Michael and a member of the British Boxing Board, Simon Block.
TO
SOWETO WITH WORLD HERO
article
about Michael's visit to the children of South Africa