As far as Film In Dublin can recall, Hugh Jackman’s all-singing, all-dancing The Greatest Showman first screened in Dublin at James Joyce’s Volta Electric Theatre on the cinema’s opening day in 1909 and has been available for viewing in the fair city of film at least once a day in the century or so since… Honestly though there is no disputing that Showman has captured the hearts of audiences in a way that few films can these days, as evidenced by its long-running success at the box office. Later this month, the Axis Art Centre and Theatre in Ballymun will be putting a fresh spin on a screening of the beloved musical hit, as a local women’s dance troupe performs alongside the film.
axis is an arts and community resource centre based in Ballymun. The centre consists of a Theatre, Dance Studio, Art Room, Gallery, Music Studio and Music Rehearsal Rooms, as well as community resources including a Café, Creche, Conference Centre and a number of Community Development Organisations.
On Saturday 27th April, the centre will be hosting a special screening of the film, including a guest performances from local dance troupe, Threads. Since being established by the axis Arts Development Manager six years ago, women’s dance programme Threads has grown considerably and now women from as far out as Drogheda, Bray and more travel to be part of this unique project. Over 157 women from ages 17-75+ have been part of the project over the years and in their latest production
Inspired by the legend and ambitions of America’s original pop-culture impresario, P.T. Barnum, comes an inspirational rags-to-riches tale of a brash dreamer who rose from nothing to prove that anything you can envision is possible and that everyone, no matter how invisible, has a stupendous story worthy of a world-class spectacle.
Two showings of this performance/screening combo will take place on the 27th at 2pm and 7.30pm, and tickets are available now from axis for €5. If you’re a fan of the film be sure to check it out and who knows, if you’ve ever thought of getting involved with dance, Threads may inspire you to make one of your million dreams come true this April.