From Ballroom to River-Brand: The Dance Revolution Stuns the IGT Judges!
The latest round of Ireland’s Got Talent proved that dance is the ultimate universal language, featuring two performers who fused tradition with modern sass to create something entirely new. The show kicked off with 19-year-old Zack Milne, a Dublin native from Finglas whose dream is to choreograph for superstars like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga. Zack brought a piece of Harlem to Dublin with a mesmerizing Voguing routine that incorporated both “old way” and “new way” ballroom culture.
Michelle Visage, a deep connoisseur of the LGBTQ+ ballroom scene, was visibly moved by Zack’s performance, noting the deep connection and historical accuracy of his movements. Denise Van Outen, who has seen world-class dancers in New York and L.A., claimed Zack was “up there with the best of them.” Zack’s incredible stage presence and technical precision earned him a unanimous sweep of four “yeses,” with Louis Walsh declaring him a “superhuman superstar in the making.”
The high energy continued with Jake, a hairdresser and six-time All-Ireland champion Irish dancer. Jake returned to the stage after a five-year hiatus, determined to combine his championship skills with his love for contemporary pop. His routine started as a traditional Irish dance before a sudden, sass-filled shift into Britney Spears’ “Toxic.” Jake performed modern choreography entirely on the toes of his Irish dancing shoes—a feat Jason Byrne called “insane.” Michelle Visage dubbed it “River-Brand,” praising his ability to turn traditional shoes into heels of sorts. Jake’s unique blend of culture and personality earned him another four “yeses,” proving that tradition is even better when you add a little sass.
