PREPARE to kiss the Blarney Stone once more as Irish spectacular Lord of the Dance returns to Blackpool next week.

This colourful Celtic feast hits the Blackpool Opera House stage on August 6 until August 31 as more than 40 dancers leap, jig and tap their way through an energetic retelling of an old Irish legend.

Lord of the Dance was brought to the stage by Irish dance legend Michael Flatley, who originally found fame through rival spectacular Riverdance.

And although the nimble-footed Flatley will not actually be appearing in this touring production, as artistic director he is in charge of making sure it meets the high standards for which it is renowned.

In fact, such is the popularity of Lord of the Dance that four permanent dance troupes tour the globe including residences in Las Vegas and at Disney World, Florida.

"Lord of the Dance is now a truly world-wide phenomenon. Since 1996 when Michael Flatley first brought the show to the world stage, well over seven million people in audiences across every continent in the world have seen the dance production," said a show spokesman.

"Michael Flatley, the creator of Lord of the Dance, has brought together a team of high-calibre and uniquely trained young dancers."

To book tickets phone the Opera House box office on 292029.