When an Irish dancer’s favourite social media dancing duo and folk-trad band say they’re teaming up for a new live show, the expectations are sky-high. Luckily, the Gardiner Brothers and Talisk not only meet that bar — they leap far beyond it.
I’d seen clips of Unleashed floating around social media: the multiplatform stage design, dynamic choreography, and cinematic lighting. I was curious how that energy would translate to the more intimate, dinner-theatre setting of The Hamilton Live.
The sold-out crowd fills every corner of the room. Even from my spot at the general admission bar seating — shoulder-to-shoulder with other fans — the pulse of the performance is undeniable. Those lucky enough to be at the front tables are practically close enough to feel the footwork.
What follows is a musical and dance journey that bends time, trend, and tradition — a seamless remix of rhythm and storytelling. Through voice-over narration, costume changes (blue jeans to glittering Celtic designs, even a light-up jacket or two), and bursts of character acting, Unleashed reveals itself as a living mosaic of movement and sound.
The star-studded cast — Brandon Asazawa, Maggie Darlington, Amy-Mae Dolan, Courtney D’Angelo, Samantha Felling, and Evan O’Brien — bring world-class artistry and charisma to every number and exude creativity in every spin, leap, and beat. The excitement is palpable onstage and off; you can see it written across the performers’ faces.
In Act Two, Michael and Matthew Gardiner lean into what they do best: blending tradition with digital-age humour and innovation. A cheeky nod to the challenges of creating for social media, their prop tripod, brotherly chemistry, and rapid-fire medleys transform viral moments into real-time magic.
And through it all, the heartbeat is Talisk — Mohsen Amini, Benedict Morris, and Charlie Galloway — whose electrifying sound elevates the night. From backing the dancers to breaking out their own crowd-stirring sets (yes, ABBA and Michael Jackson covers included), the trio’s musicianship is simply magnetic.
Unleashed is more than a show — it’s a love letter to modern Irish dance and music. A collaboration that honours its roots while fearlessly stepping into the now.
I don’t want to give away all the surprises — part of the allure is simply sharing the space with these incredibly talented performers. The Gardiner Brothers and Talisk have truly captured lightning in a bottle. If Unleashed is coming to a city near you, run to the theatre. If it’s not, keep a close eye on the journey because you do not want to miss it.
‘Unleashed: The Show’ is touring across the United States in 2025. Find more information here.
