If one were to bestow a nickname similar to Sinatra’s “Ol’ Blue Eyes” on dance maestro Michael Flatley, it would have to be something along the lines of “Ol’ Twinkletoes.” Because there are times when you find yourself looking for evidence of trick camera work, but then you realize that you’re seeing this amazing display in the flesh, so how does he do it? His days as the male lead and choreographer of Riverdance behind him, Flatley has spent the last year concentrating on his new show Lord of the Dance, currently touring the U.S. This may not be a Leap Year on the calendar, but you can bet there’ll be some spectacular bounding and leaping on the stage at Radio City Music Hall, where the show moves in March.

Some years ago, National Geographic magazine described this Chicago-born world champion dancer as a “national treasure.” Flatley manages an astounding 28 taps a second, and he set a world record by doing so. This talented dancer has taken the world of Irish dance by storm, bringing it back to the forefront of the performing arts.

He has danced with The Chieftains, and toured with the Green Fields of America with Mick Maloney; he plays world class chess, is a member of Mensa and was a Golden Gloves boxing champion in Chicago. Yet another rumored feather in his cap is his possible upcoming appearance during the Oscars. From the Eurovision to the Oscars, Flatley has certainly danced his way to success, and he is no doubt already planning his next dance extravaganza.