The Magic of Celtic Illusion – Anthony Street on Bringing Dance and Magic to New Zealand

This November, New Zealand audiences are in for a spectacular treat as Celtic Illusion embarks on a nationwide tour, visiting 17 centres from Auckland to Gore. Presented by Base Entertainment, the team behind the hit productions Ballroom Blitz and Celtica, Celtic Illusion is set to amaze with its unique fusion of Irish dance, grand illusion, and flavors of Broadway, Fosse, and even Michael Jackson. We caught up with the show’s creator and star, Anthony Street, to dive into the magic behind the production.

A Unique Blend of Dance and Illusion

At its heart, Celtic Illusion is a groundbreaking blend of two distinct art forms: the lightning-fast footwork of Irish dance and the mystery of grand illusion. So, how did such a unique concept come to life? According to Anthony, it all started with his passion for both disciplines. “I’ve always loved the theatricality of Irish dance and the way it captivates audiences,” he shared. “When I discovered my love for illusion, it felt natural to combine the two and create something completely new.”

This innovative approach has set Celtic Illusion apart, making it a family-friendly show like no other. For those who’ve seen previous versions of the production, Anthony promises even more magic this time around. “This tour features new illusions, new choreography, and an incredible cast of world-class talent,” he said. “We’ve taken everything audiences loved and brought it to the next level.”

Influences of Broadway and Beyond

Celtic Illusion doesn’t just stick to tradition—it embraces influences from iconic performers and styles. From the sharp, stylized moves of Fosse to the showmanship of Michael Jackson, Anthony explained how these elements enhance the performance. “Irish dance is beautiful on its own, but incorporating these modern influences creates a truly dynamic experience,” he said. “It’s like Broadway meets Ireland, with a touch of magic thrown in.”

Touring New Zealand

With 17 stops across New Zealand, Anthony is thrilled to bring Celtic Illusion back to Kiwi audiences. “New Zealanders are some of the most enthusiastic and supportive audiences we’ve ever had,” he said. “There’s such a strong appreciation for performance art here, and we can’t wait to share this show with communities big and small.”

The tour also highlights incredible local talent, featuring Kiwi dancers, vocalists, and musicians. “It’s always special to collaborate with local artists and showcase their skills on an international stage,” Anthony added.

Advice for Aspiring Performers

For those dreaming of a career in dance or illusion, Anthony has simple but powerful advice: “Find your passion and don’t be afraid to take risks. Whether it’s mastering a dance move or creating a new illusion, the key is to keep pushing yourself and never stop learning. And most importantly, enjoy the journey—that’s where the real magic happens.”

Don’t Miss the Magic

Celtic Illusion is more than a show; it’s an unforgettable experience that will leave audiences in awe. With breathtaking choreography, spellbinding illusions, and a world-class cast, this production is a must-see for fans of dance, magic, and theatrical spectacle.

Catch Celtic Illusion as it tours New Zealand this November. Tickets are selling fast, so secure yours now and prepare to be captivated by the magic of Anthony Street and his talented team. For more information and tour dates, visit the official website.