A NEW touring production evoking the Emerald Isle is coming to Weymouth.

Essence of Ireland is set to hit Weymouth Pavilion on March 4 and will also be at the Octagon, Yeovil on April 21.

It tells a compelling love story inspired by true events and is set against the music and dance of Ireland, USA and Spain.

Set against the backdrop of Ireland, England and America in the 19th century, Essence of Ireland tells the story of love, joy, happiness and heartache endured by Coro McGowen and Sean Dempsey as they are separated by emigration.

As the story moves across to England and then on to America, the show takes you on a journey through many historical events including America’s introduction to rock and roll; and John F Kennedy’s historic presidential visit to Ireland in 1963.

Pupils from the local Let’s Dance School will be performing with the cast from Essence of Ireland at the Weymouth show.

Creative director and co-writer Ged Graham is delighted to have dancers from a local dance school performing.

He said: “We as producers really want the dancers to participate fully in our show and not just be on the outer edges.

“We set out not just to tell a powerful love story; but to tell a bigger tale based on true events about the love between a man and his country – something which audiences really relate to.

“Our show is guaranteed to entertain and move audiences young and old.”

Many of the much-loved Irish songs that run so deep within the country’s music heritage are seamlessly entwined within the show’s engaging story, including ‘Galway Girl’, ‘Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears’, ‘Tell me Ma’ and ‘Irish Rover’ along with original scores.

Ross Mills, director of production and co-writer of Essence of Ireland, says: “The Irish have a cultural identity like no other and that pride in their heritage and traditions, manifests itself in ‘St Patrick's Day.

“The tour, which has been scheduled around St Patricks Day 2015, aims to really capture that authentic Irish feeling.

“The 2015 tour will include new material and new costumes so we are very excited about getting back on the road again.”

Contact the venues for tickets.