Flatley leads kids on merry Christmas dance

Lord of the Dance Michael Flatley and his wife Niamh opened their luxurious Castlehyde mansion and their hearts yesterday to help make dreams come true for vulnerable children from Cork.

The couple hosted a magical day of festive activities in their restored 18th century home for around 100 children and their families, who are supported by Barnardos, where they met Santa and left laden with gifts and treats.

“Unfortunately, there are so many families in Ireland who cannot afford to give their children the Christmas they deserve,” Mr Flatley said. “We wanted to make a little difference to as many children in Cork as possible — to give them a Christmas to remember, and to ensure they all have a present to unwrap on Christmas morning.”

The mansion and its grounds were suitably decorated with fairy lights adorning the Castlehyde estate’s entrance and its sweeping avenue, and the house itself was transformed to look like Santa’s grotto.

The children got a tour of the magnificent mansion, which underwent a €30m restoration in the early 2000s, and met the man himself — Santa Claus — before enjoying treats from Castlehyde’s kitchen.

Barnardos chief executive, Fergus Finlay, who arranged for Santa Claus to visit Castlehyde, said he was delighted the Flatleys had supported the event. “Their support will help ease the burden of many families this Christmas,” he said.

Mr Flatley staged the event through his Michael Flatley Foundation instead of hosting his usual festive get-together for neighbours and friends.

After the Christmas break, Mr Flatley is set to continue touring his hit show Lord of the Dance - Dangerous Games.

The show arrives at the 3Arena in Dublin next March for what will be Flatley’s final dance appearance on an Irish stage, before the production sets off on a 200-date world tour.

www.michaelflatley.com