Our wee dancing star Barry is now an internet sensation
Public just love schoolboy’s Irish jig
Move over Michael Flately there’s a new star in town.
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A video of Hamilton schoolboy Barry Murray showing off his Irish dance moves while wearing his Celtic football strip has gone viral.
The five-year-old’s moves were captured by his dance teacher, Katie Mcvey, and the video amassed thousands of views in just a few days.
It has also received approval from the lead dancer in Michael Flately’s Lord of the Dance production, Bernadette Flynn.
Bernadette posted on Facebook: “Love it!”
The youngster has recently started dancing at the Katie Mcvey Academy of Irish Dancing, where his sister Georgia (8) has been a member for a few years now.
His mum, Danielle, decided to start the St Cuthbert’s Primary youngster with lessons as he has such a passion for music and dance.
She explained: “He has been attending since April and he loves it. Being autistic, Barry just comes alive when he hears music.
“He has loved reading all the comments on his video so far and loves watching the numbers of views going up.”
The youngster also enjoys playing football and his mum says he’s often spotted dancing at the sidelines.
Barry’s aunt Leah Crothers said: “When Barry was diagnosed with autism at the age three, we didn’t think he would be able to attend mainstream education as he was pretty much nonverbal until the age of four.
“But he is just thriving just now due to his mum’s extreme hard work, educating herself and all her dedication.”
Katie Mcvey, who runs classes for beginners through to championship level across South Lanarkshire, said: “Barry is an absolute pleasure to teach. He is so conscientious and loves every second on the dance floor.
“Barry’s sister Georgia has danced with me for a few years now, and he has always come along to class with her. He started to show a real interest in joining in around six months ago, and has just flourished ever since. So much so, he’s now trying to give Michael Flatley a run for his money, as you can see.
“Barry is delighted that he has attracted so much attention from his video post, and absolutely buzzing that one of my friends, Bernadette Flynn – who was the original lead Saoirse, the Irish Cailín, in Lord of the Dance – has commented on my post, complimenting his performance.
“I danced with Michael Flatley in both Lord of the Dance and Feet of Flames many years ago, and I would love Barry to aspire to reach this stage in many years to come too.”
To watch Barry in action, visit the Hamilton Advertiser’s website or Facebook page.