I MUST have seen Lord of the Dance four or five times now – and it never fails to deliver.

First devised by Michael ‘feet of flames’ Flatley 20 years ago, the show is based around the simplistic tale of a magical spirit, her pipe and a battle between good and evil.

Aspects of Lord of the Dance have evolved and grown with the show, which is at the Pavilion until Thursday, over time.

The costumes for the latest incarnation, Dangerous Games, now feature multiple sequins and LED lights, while the backdrop consists of two huge screens featuring moving images, not unlike the opening of a James Bond film.

It’s all very fancy but, if I’m honest, a little unnecessary and at times even distracting.

The core of this show has always been and, for me, always will be the simply phenomenal dancing.

Updated in places, but still featuring some of the original choreography, this is sheer dance perfection – and it needs no clever gimmicks other than the breathtaking footwork and absolute precision delivered by every member of the cast.

Flatley’s shoes are big ones to fill, but the lead dancer – the role is played by four of his own proteges on this tour – was more than capable.

This is Irish dancing made sexy; fierce; exciting and performed with incredibly infectious energy – even the violin duo is footstomping.

I still get goosebumps from the finale routine, am still mesmerised by the speed of the dancers’ feet, and still want to watch it again and again.

If you’ve never seen Lord of the Dance, get yourself a ticket – you won’t regret it.

EMMA JOSEPH