On Eagle's Wing written by Northern Ireland composer and musician John Anderson which played to thousands of people in Belfast's giant Odyssey Arena at the weekend, has been dubbed the Protestant Riverdance.
Whether it will emulate the commercial and global success of Riverdance has yet to be tested but the spectacular show certainly thrilled the crowd in the Odyssey on Friday and Saturday nights.
On both nights the huge cast of actors, singers and dancers were accorded rousing standing ovations from the audience, many of whom were emotionally moved by the whole experience.
On Eagle's Wing tells the story of the Ulster Scots or Scots Irish from 1690 until the present, focusing on their migration, first from Scotland to Ulster, and then from the North to America, and how they flourished in the New World. It was to have premiered in Atlanta, Georgia, last month but was cancelled at the last moment when crucial investors pulled out of the project. Hence the world premiere in Belfast.
The Rev Ian Paisley was there on Friday night, and Mr David Trimble, Lord Maginnis, Mr Gregory Campbell and former head of the Ulster-Scots Agency, Lord Laird, enjoyed a night of foot-tapping tunes and dance numbers as well as the dramatic torch songs.
This was a night for Protestant or unionist celebration as very few from the "other side of the house" were at the show.
All the party leaders were invited, according to Lord Laird, including Sinn Féin's Mr Gerry Adams and SDLP leader Mr Mark Durkan. Deputy SDLP leader Dr Alasdair McDonnell stood in for his boss and Mr Danny Morrison ensured a republican presence.
Kilted Lord Laird was in tears after both shows and even yesterday he was still emotionally choked up. "It was awesome. This was the biggest experience of my life. This show is a world beater," he enthused.
He believed it would help generate greater self-confidence for Protestants in their own culture, history and traditions and while acknowledging that few nationalists or Catholics were at the production, he said they should have been. "They would have enjoyed it. This show could not offend anyone."
The former Women's Coalition Assembly member, Ms Jane Morrice, agreed. "I have to admit there were times when I was in tears. It was a very professional, very moving show and you don't have to be an Ulster Scots to appreciate it. I hope it is a major success in London and the US," she added.
Mr Morrison said it was very entertaining but he did not think it would have the effect of instilling a greater sense of confidence and well-being in Protestant breasts. "If I was a dislocated unionist and jealous of the Fenians having all the best songs, I don't think that On Eagle's Wing would have that cathartic effect that Lord Laird believes it has," he said.
The promoters of the show are in talks with London and American promoters.
