Riverdance, the popular Irish step dancing show, has been entertaining audiences around the world since 1995. With its fusion of traditional Irish music and dance along with more modern stagecraft, Riverdance brings a unique cultural experience to the stage. But is it worth seeing in 2023? Let’s take a closer look at what the show offers.
The History of Riverdance
Riverdance originated as an interval performance during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, produced by Moya Doherty and directed by John McColgan. The seven minute dance piece featuring traditional Irish dancing champions Jean Butler and Michael Flatley was a huge hit with audiences.
Due to the segment’s popularity, Flatley, Butler and the rest of the Riverdance troupe were invited to perform full length shows in Dublin and London in early 1995. The response was so ecstatic that Flatley decided to turn Riverdance into a full scale production.
After a few iterations and cast changes, Riverdance settled into the familiar format audiences know today – a two act production with Irish step dancing champions performing to stirring Irish music alongside more contemporary dance styles. Songs are belted out by vocalists while musicians play classic Irish instruments like fiddles, flutes and the bodhrán drum on stage.
Over its nearly 30 year run, Riverdance has been performed over 11,000 times in 47 different countries for a live audience nearing 30 million people. While Flatley left the show in 1995 to create Lord of the Dance, Riverdance continues to tour and enchant new generations of audiences.
The Magic of Riverdance
So what is it exactly about Riverdance that keeps audiences enthralled year after year? There are several elements that come together to create a magical experience.
- The skill of the dancers – The Irish step dancing champions who perform in Riverdance are among the very best in the world. Their precision footwork performed in unison is simply astounding to witness live. The accomplished troupes require intense training to reach the level demanded by the show’s producers.
- The music – Whether it’s soaring vocals, mournful uilleann pipes or driving fiddle medleys, the music is always top notch and performed live. Backed by an excellent band, the songs provide an emotional backing for the dancing.
- Stagecraft – With sophisticated lighting, projection and set design, Riverdance uses effective theatrical techniques to complement the performances. Costume changes, clever scene transitions and spectacular finales enhance the overall experience.
- Cultural heritage – Riverdance does an excellent job paying homage to traditional Irish music and dance, while making it accessible for international audiences. It’s a celebration of culture that resonates with people across the globe.
By seamlessly blending high caliber dancing, music, and production value, Riverdance delivers an unforgettable experience that dazzles the senses and warms the soul.
Riverdance Numbers
While Riverdance has evolved over the years, there are several staple numbers audiences can count on seeing during a performance:
- Reel Around the Sun – A lively opening number featuring the full Riverdance troupe.
- Harvest Time – A peaceful piece with lyrical dancing.
- Trading Taps – A showcase of skilled footwork and tapping.
- American Wake – A moving number exploring Irish immigration to America.
- Andalucía Suite – Flamenco and Spanish influences highlighted.
- Heartland – The second act’s dramatic opening piece.
- Finale – Planet Ireland/Riverdance – An upbeat, rousing conclusion to the show.
While cast members may come and go, these beloved acts connect Riverdance audiences across the decades.
Special Effects
A Riverdance performance relies on more than just talented dancers to enthrall the crowd. State of the art lighting, projection, pyrotechnics and mechanical effects help enhance the show.
Audiences can expect to see:
- Dramatic lighting scenes turning the stage vivid colors.
- Fog flooding across the stage floor.
- Crackling pyrotechnics during climatic moments.
- Smooth transition scenes as the stage morphs seamlessly between sets.
- Elevating platforms that raise dancers up over the stage.
- Giant LED light up musical notes hovering over performers.
- Projected background animations and scenery.
These cutting edge effects create an immersive experience that thrills audiences.
Touring Productions
Riverdance continues to tour extensively, crisscrossing the globe to reach fans far and wide. The show visits major venues across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia annually.
The touring production brings a full company of over 75 people including dancers, musicians, singers, crew members and more. The elaborate sets fill several trucks that move from city to city.
Along with the original Riverdance show, there are also special engagements and smaller troupe versions that perform:
- Riverdance: The New 25th Anniversary Show – Updated production with new numbers.
- Riverdance: The Farewell Tour – Winding down 25th anniversary celebrations.
- Riverdance: A New Adventure – Smaller troupe versions for shorter engagements.
So even if the flagship Riverdance show isn’t coming to your area, one of the touring productions may still make a tour stop near you.
Response from Critics
While beloved by audiences, Riverdance has seen a more mixed response from professional critics over the years. Reviews tend to be polarized between lavish praise and harsh critiques.
Here’s a summary of some common critic responses:
Positive Opinions
- Astounding dance technique and precision.
- Excellent live instrumental music.
- Vibrant, colorful staging and costumes.
- Shared cultural heritage portrayed.
- Enthusiastic audience response.
Negative Critiques
While some may see the show as impressive but superficial, most agree Riverdance is an unforgettable experience due to the world class dancing and music.
Accolades
Despite divides amongst critics, Riverdance has racked up numerous prestigious awards over the decades:
- Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Spectacle (1996)
- British Academy of Film and Television Arts Audience Award (1996)
- Grammy for Best Musical Show Album (1997)
- Emmy for Best Choreography (1997)
- Six Drama Desk Awards (1997)
- Grammy Hall of Fame induction (2017)
Riverdance has also been seen by Queen Elizabeth II, Pope John Paul II and President Bill Clinton, cementing its broad appeal.
Conclusion
When determining if Riverdance is worth seeing, the numbers speak for themselves – over 11,000 performances, 30 million audience members and dozens of prestigious honors. With spectacular dancing, exceptional music and masterful production, the show delivers an iconic celebration of Irish culture.
While the simplistic narrative and tourist positioning turn off some critics, audiences across generations continue flocking to see Riverdance for good reason. The awe-inspiring skill and precision of the performers coupled with the power of live Irish music make for an unforgettable theatrical event.
For those looking to experience a thrilling cultural performance to stir the senses and the soul, Riverdance absolutely delivers. The show stands the test of time by combining tradition with modern stagecraft. Even after 25 years, Riverdance remains an absolute must-see.