Riverdance's 25th Anniversary cast have recorded a dance compilation video in aid of Trocaire's Covid-19 response appeal.
The video features over 40 dancers from the troupe, including Armagh's Olivia Murray, Belfast's Lauren Smyth and Jason O'Neill, and Tyrone's Amy-Mae Dolan.
Three Irish doctors also feature among the stars of the video namely Maria Buffini, Shona Cobbe and Gillian Madders. The trio are all working on the frontline in Ireland’s hospitals, but took time out of their busy schedules to record the message of support for Trócaire’s Covid-19 response, which aims to help those in 19 of the world’s poorest countries.
In the video, each dancer records their own segment in isolation. Their performances feature stunning scenery from a number of Irish cities and counties, as well international locations such as Sydney, New York, Madrid and London.
Trócaire recently launched their urgent appeal, asking supporters to return donations from their Trócaire boxes online or over the phone.
The development agency has warned that a 60% decline in donations to its Lenten Appeal has put many of its life-saving programmes at risk.
Explaining the background to the video, which was recorded to raise awareness of Trócaire’s appeal, Dr Madders explained: “Riverdance is a proud sponsor of Trócaire and we are asking you to visit trocaire.org and make a donation today. Your support could make a world of difference.”
The charity’s biggest fundraising campaign has been severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, with many supporters unable to return their Trócaire boxes due to ongoing restrictions.
Trócaire’s Lenten Appeal raises approximately €8m each year. Two-thirds of this money comes from Trócaire boxes distributed through schools and parishes. Travel and social restrictions – including the closure of schools and parishes – means most boxes have not been returned this year.
Trócaire has warned that unless donations from the boxes are returned, a funding crisis will impact directly on the 3 million people who rely on its work overseas.
Dr Cobbe said: “Trócaire are facing a major funding crisis. COVID restrictions mean that people cannot return their Trócaire boxes and that has put the charity’s life-saving work at risk.”
Dr Buffini added: “During the COVID-19 crisis, people in Ireland have made extraordinary sacrifices to keep each other safe. Trócaire are doing their part by responding in 19 of the poorest countries in the world. With your help, Trócaire are providing hand-washing facilities, vital information and medical care.”
The Riverdance video, recorded with the support of Riverdance director and Trócaire ambassador John McColgan closes with the optimistic message: “Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine” / “Under the shelter of each other, people survive.”
