New generation of dancers bring the traditions of Riverdance to a new audience in night of colour and music at Birmingham theatre
I remember it as if it was yesterday. The 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, and the night that “Riverdance” took first Europe and then the world by storm.
We starred open mouthed as Michael Flatley and Jean Butler lead their company of incredible Irish dancers in what can only be described as an unforgettable moment in time. But this was just the beginning.
What began life as the host nation’s interval act soon became a phenomenon, which has delighted and amazed audiences across the world for more than 30 years.
Now, a new generation of dancers has brought “Riverdance” back to the stage, all of whom were not even born when the original debuted, and from September 4-9, Midlanders are lucky enough to get the opportunity to see this unique and extraordinary show at the Birmingham Alexandra Theatre on Thursday.
This is so much more than an exhibition of Irish dance. First of all, the show is visually stunning with high-tech projections which create stunning scenery for the different aspects of the piece.
Joan Bergin’s costumes were sumptuous and vivid, whilst still retaining the authentic, period look of the timeframe in which each number is set, and Andrew Voller’s lighting effects were atmospheric and at times almost spiritual, perfectly setting the scene for this mystical show.
The original principal dancers’ choreography by Michael Flately remains largely intact, with perhaps just the tiniest amount of updating, and remains as thrilling and iconic as when it was first performed.
