Pierce Brosnan, Aisling Bea and Brendan Gleeson cast in 'Riverdance' animated film

IRISH ACTORS Brendan Gleeson, Pierce Brosnan and Aisling Bea have been cast in the upcoming animated film version of the hit musical Riverdance.

The trio head up a star-studded cast of actors from the stage and screen who are due to lend their voices to Riverdance: The Animated Adventure.

Based on the popular Michael Flatley stage show of the same name, the film is a co-production between UK animation studio Aniventure and River Productions.

Riverdance: The Animated Adventure centres on Keegan, an Irish boy who, along with his Spanish friend Moya, embarks on a journey into the mythical world of the Megaloceros Giganteus (Irish Elk).

While there, the two friends learn to appreciate the magic of Riverdance and its status as a celebration of life.

The producers of the film have told fans “the animated musical comedy will reintroduce the legendary stage show to a new generation in a way never before seen or experienced.”

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Brosnan will voice the role of King of the Megaloceros Giganteus.

Gleeson will voice one of the film’s villains alongside fellow Irish actor John Kavanagh.

Bea has also joined the impressive voice cast alongside Lilly Singh, Jermaine Fowler, Pauline McLynn, Sam Hardy and Hannah Herman Cortes.

The film has been written by Dave Rosenbaum and Tyler Werrin and directed by Rosenbaum along with Eammon Butler.

Rosenbaum said in a statement: "The breadth and depth of the comedic and dramatic talent of this cast resonates with every line.

“Their vast experiences and wild imaginations delivered brilliantly nuanced performances which will thrill their fans and charm new audiences.”

Bill Wheelman’s musical score will feature, combining some of the main themes from the original stage show score along with some new arrangements.

Incredibly, the entire score was recorded remotely during the Covid-19 lockdown.

A 73-piece orchestra recorded the music using a socially-distanced Vienna concert stage.