The two-hour Celtic dance and music extravaganza, “Rhythm of the Dance,” presented by the National Dance Company of Ireland, will grace the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Mainstage 7 p.m. March 13.

From the opening moments, dancers tap out the beats of the ancient Irish rhythms, which have pulsed through passionate Irish hearts throughout the ages. “Rhythm of the Dance” features a live band, three tenors and 22  Irish dancers.

This music and dance celebration of Irish culture has been heralded a new era in Irish entertainment and internationally acclaimed as one of the most popular and busiest Irish step dance shows in the world. Combining traditional dance and music with the most up-to-date stage technology, the show is a thousand-year-old story executed with all the advantages of the modern-day stage show.

Through song and dance, the epic unfolds, reliving the journey of the Irish Celts. For decades, the Celtic clans of Leinster and Ulster were at war. These once peaceful people were driven into battle by their rulers’ lust for land and power. Following the last great battle of their time, both rulers stood no more. With the Emerald Isle left in ruins, two great Celtic warriors now stand to rebuild what is lost. As members of the new generation come to power, with them comes a glimmer of hope that one day the Emerald Isle would stand united in peace.

Since its debut performance in 1999 in Norway, “Rhythm of the Dance” has played to more than 4.5 million fans in 44 countries and appeared live on Chinese TV for a millennium celebration to an audience of 700 million viewers. The energy and quality of the show has meant it is repeatedly booked in most cities in which it is performed — touring 40 weeks a year.

Tickets for the performance at the Mendel Center Mainstage are available by calling (269) 927-1221 or by visiting www.lmcmainstage.org. Students (kindergarten through college) and seniors (60 and older) receive 10 percent off single-ticket prices. Groups of 20 or more can receive a 15 percent savings on ticket prices.

For further information about group rates and special arrangements, call the group coordinator at (269) 927-8109 or email questions to groups@lakemichigancollege.edu.