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. His 'Lord of the Dance' troupe were invited to provide the main entertainment, and a special Irish themed lunch was presented for the almost 900 guests. 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 Irish Dance 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.
Sadly, this wonderful event was not covered by any of the Irish media.
| Here are some photos taken at the lunch, which took place at the London Hilton Hotel on Park Lane, December 11th, 2001. Photos by two Dublin supporters, Ann and Shanah, who attended the lunch to support Michael and the troupe, and to contribute to the charity, but had no idea what a unique event the day would turn out to be! |  |
Michael
Flatley receiving his award, with Marie Duffy Messager,
Dennis Dennehyis and
Seamus O'Shea (Chairman of An Comisiun)
with
Ronan Hardiman
with
Gerry Kelly