They conquered North America in hard-soled shoes, short black skirts or slim black pants, this troupe of Irish dancers and musicians. Sweeping the continent by storm with jigs, reels and hornpipes, Riverdance grew into a millions-served phenomenon, resuscitating an interest in Irish culture and big, flashy arena-style shows showcasing dance and music. In its wake, it has left millions dazzled by heartbeat-quickening, Irish step-dance rhythms performed with the precision of a military drill team.

It started as a bit of a lark: In 1994, the producers of Eurovision Song Contest needed a seven-minute filler to bide time while judges deliberated. A composer, choreographer and producer came up with Riverdance, a music-and-dance number. It combined the pinpoint accuracy of a Radio City Music Hall Rockettes line with the heartfelt ballads and spritely jigs of Irish folk music, featuring Bill Whelan’s compositions.

This weekend, the massive North American operation of Riverdance — 60 dancers, singers, musicians and crew — will sing and dance for the last time on these shores. The Dublin-based production company is closing down its North American tour with five performances at Wolf Trap, one of its earliest and most consistent venues.

“We just thought this was a good time to close down here,” said Julien Erskine, who, as the show’s executive producer, is a bit like a general, his office wall plastered with maps filled in with color-coded dots denoting the cities, countries and continents where Riverdance has stepped.

“I think it’s the right call at the right time,” he added. “Nearly 12 million people in over 400 cities have come to see Riverdance in North America. We’re very, very happy with that and we don’t want to spoil it by outstaying our welcome.”

Padraic Moyles (pronounced Poor-ick Moy-ills) has Dublin and Bronx in his makeup — born in Ireland but schooled in the New York borough where his parents moved when he was a child. He grew up watching his mum and dad and their friends socializing on Friday nights in their living room with Irish set dances, which are similar to American square dances.

A Riverdance veteran, currently touring with the New Zealand and Australia cast, Moyles spent the majority of his career traveling and performing across North America, which he insists has the most effusive audiences in the world.

He remembers seeing the show in its first U.S. performances at Radio City Music Hall in New York in 1996. “I liked dance, but I didn’t love it,” Moyles said; at 16, he was taking Irish dance lessons because his parents wanted him to. “That night I saw Riverdance and it changed everything. I realized how cool it looked up there and I said to myself, ‘I need to be a part of this.’ ”

Hearing about an audition, Moyles and another dancing friend skipped class and drove to Boston to try out. A few weeks later, he came home from school to find his mother holding an envelope, wondering why Riverdance was writing to him. Moyles had been offered a position in the company. His mother hugged — and scolded — him. His parents agreed he could join the tour as soon as he finished high school.

Now 33, Moyles is married to one of the original dancers, Niamh O’Connor. He thinks he has performed at Wolf Trap at least a dozen times, and it remains among his favorite venues. “You walk out on the stage and see the people sitting on the hill and within the theater, with all the wood,” Moyles said, “and it’s always packed.”

Riverdance has been a phenomenon for Wolf Trap, said Ann McKee, the venue’s senior vice president. Over the years the company has performed 109 times, with 492,877 people attending the shows. Wolf Trap has grossed more than $23 million — not including this year — making Riverdance its all-time bestseller.

For McKee, that’s a huge relief. When she booked the tour for its first two-week visit in the summer of 1997, she had never seen the show; all she had to go on was a video excerpt she caught on the nightly news. It was enough to convince her that Riverdance would be perfect at Wolf Trap.

“It was a mighty roll of the dice,” she said, “but it proved to be an amazing collaboration.”

Riverdance Troupe. Final Farewell Tour of North America.

Asked whether Wolf Trap has anything special planned for this weekend’s final North American run, McKee kept mum. Erskine will travel from Dublin to see the cast take its final bows on American soil and to bid farewell to Wolf Trap, a venue he names as one of his top five in the world.

“There’s a great moment at Wolf Trap,” he said, “when [the ushers] drop the ropes and the crowd comes pouring over the hill to get the best place on the lawn . . . coming over the top of the hill with a great sense of excitement.”

Erskine won’t rest on his laurels. Riverdance he said, has other nations, other continents to conquer. In the coming months and years, Riverdance will add India, China, South America and the Middle East to its territorial expansion.

Read this on the Riverdance website: PREVIEW: Wolf Trap ready for a last ‘Dance’

NICOLA DEMPSEY, A BOOKWORM BY DAY, DANCER BY NIGHT

MORE RIVERDANCER’S REVEAL THEIR FAVORITES: Since my last blog( which revealed dancers favorite ‘things)’ got such a good response (if I may say so myself!), I figured I’d go ahead and do another feature this week. So, off I set backstage in Baltimore, MD with my pen and paper and set about seeking my next few victims! Unfortunate person #1 was Nicola Dempsey; Nicola is an avid reader especially when it comes to sitting on a bus for several hours at a time! I managed to get a sneaky photograph to support this. Ok! I’ll be honest we set up the photo shoot so had her pose nicely for all the Riverdance fans out there!

I he asked Nicola to make a list of the books she’s read to date since the Shannon began. They include the ‘Hunger Games’ trilogy, ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo’ trilogy, Agatha Christie’s ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ and an Amy Winehouse biography. “I like to read in a nice, quiet atmosphere….The bus is perfect for this!” she claims. Nicola is currently reading ‘Mao’s Last Dancer’ by Li Cunxin.

TOKIKO WITH HER ELECTRONICS

Let me next introduce to you the lovely Tokiko Masuda, who was over the moon when I asked her to feature on my blog. She had a hard time narrowing her selection of favorite ‘things’ to one, so we agreed to feature her top two favorites; those being her Apple ipad and Sony headphones. Tokiko got the ipad at Christmas and the headphones were a birthday gift. She always has them in her blue tote so whether it’s at work or on the bus or in the hotel, she can listen to music, skype home or watch movies etc. Like Brian and Shane her ipad allows her to stay in touch with family and friends, write emails or check Liverpool scores. For those of you who don’t know Tokiko she is Liverpool-mad. ” I’m their number one fan….They just don’t know it yet! ” she adds.

NICOLE MCKEEVER AND VISITOR - PET 'NORA'

Along my travels backstage between dressing rooms and quick changes, I stumbled upon Miss Nicole McKeever who is also part of our dance troupe. Nicole managed to smuggle the cutest most well-behaved puppy dog into our make-up room and introduced us to ‘Nora’, her pet dog from New Jersey (NJ) . NJ is home for Nicole and her parents, upon visiting, decided to take Nora on their road trip. It is unfortunate for Nicole that the ‘Rules of the Road’ do not allow pets on the road with us. “Nora would be on the top of my list!’ she adds.

NICHOLE HULL'S BUNK AND ALL HER FAVORITE GADGETS.

So, I know enough about the dancers. What about the crew? What do they like? What can they not live without? Well lucky for you readers and fans I nabbed Nichole Hull in the Riverdance wardrobe department. Nichole just finished mending one of the ‘shivna’ lead crowns. I asked her the same question I asked all the others. Responding with that contagious giggle of hers, she says; “Girl, I love my Netflix ,but I’ve a whole world of favorite things in my bunk!” Considering Nichole spends most of her nights on the crew’s sleeper bus, this is where she stores all her prized possessions. Would she ever be so kind and share this with us? Why, yes of course! Nichole came back the following night to me with a snap shot of her very own bunk and all her personal effects stashed nicely for all of us to see!
As Nichole is a very loyal baseball fan, you can just about make out her Milwaukee Brewers blanket. She has a mesh pocket which has several compartments. Here, she stores her vitamins, midnights snacks, jewellery and such goodies. Of course not to mention her ipad for the beloved Netflix! And with that famous giggle she leaves me stating: “This is where I live, on the road, so I make damn sure I surround it with things I love!’

Read Fiona’s Blog: What Riverdancers cannot live without – Part I

Read this on the Riverdance website: What Riverdancers cannot live without – part II

Riverdance boasts The Riverdance Dance Troupe, Musicians and Singers, Irish and International dance and song soloists from Spain, Australia, Great Britain and the United States. Musical Director/Keyboardist Declan Masterson runs a tight ship and if there was one note gone awry in this whole production neither I nor my professional musician friend caught it.

The tappers and singers are amazing but one of the brightest stars of the show is the percussionist, Mark Alfred. Far right of the action but somehow right in the middle of it, Mr Alfred gives an incredibly energetic performance, calling to more primitive blood with his booming rhythms on two enormous drum sets, and on castanets, chimes, and the wonderful Irish hand drum called a Bodhran. He came out center stage to play a duet with the talented fiddle player, Niamh Ni Charra and he played that drum so fast that his hand was literally a blur while never missing a beat. People were on their feet cheering.

Declan Masterson

Mark Alfred

Niamh Ní Charra

The audience were on their feet a lot during this production and most deservedly so. Somehow the stage was miked to amplify the sound of the dancers tapping in perfect unison and at times the very real impression of thunder filled the Fox Theatre.

Jason E. Bernard

Ben Mapp

One of the best bits in the production is the introduction of Jason E. Bernard and Benjamin Mapp, street tappers, equally breathtaking in their mastery of jazz tap. They and the four of the male Irish dancers have a dance duel, highlighting their differences and similarities as they change styles back and forth, the street dancers doing their comatose version of the stiff armed Irish style, and the Irish dancers giving us one of the best illustrations of jazz hands ever.

The choreography is incredible. Men and women flying across the stage, women linking hands to do a stiff armed chorus line where nothing moves except their legs and feet and those appendages are a blur of precision. The singers are equally polished and wonderful, ethereal harmonies abound.

James Greenan

Alana Mallon

James Greenan and Alana Mallon danced the leads the night we went. They were a beautiful pair and I didn’t miss Michael Flatley one bit; and although I’m not quite clear on what Spanish Flamenco dancing has to do with Irish step dancing, except perhaps as a progenitor, it was a treat to watch Marita Martinez – Rey, haughty and wonderful, dancing in that most beautiful style.

Riverdance is a feast for eyes and ears, a call to cultural identity and a ripping good show.

Riverdance played The Fox Theatre, St Louis, 18 – 20 May 2012

Read this on the Riverdance website: Dancing Magic, Music and Timeless Beauty at the Fox

Fiona McCabe, Irish Dance Troupe, Shannon Company

City Update

My delicious Quebecois version of le croque monsieur brunch

Quebec City, QC: A beautiful, historic city that delighted me in every aspect but I was not sad to leave behind a city where they STILL have winter in April! Highlights included early morning swims in the rooftop outdoor heated swimming pool and dining at the ‘Restaurant Le Retro’ bistro in the oldtown to taste the homemade assortment of local pates and seafood chicken pie. A brunch consisting of croque-monsieur on Friday afternoon gave a nice kick start to my day.

Saguenay, QC and Ottawa, ON: With over 800 kilometers of traveling over 2 days, we were restricted to day-time exploring in these lovely cities. I was looking forward to spending some time observing the history of the city of Ottawa (formerly known as Bytown) which was founded in 1827 by Colonel John By. Next time I suppose!

Bangor, ME: I was psyched to learn that our medical officer, Chris Barbour had the pleasure of driving past famous author (and my favorite writer), Steven King’s house- One of several of his properties which stood very close to out hotel on Odlin road. We wowed the Bangor audience after a record 11 hours and 25 minute travel day from Ottawa.

Glens Falls, NY: The Shannon enjoyed some breathtaking scenery as we drove via Woodstock, It gave it’s name to the famous music festival in 1969 which was located a mere 69 miles away. Former troupe dancer, Lexa Hickey payed us all a nice visit with her dance students.

Fiona McCabe with Dr. Pearce Lyons (President and founder of Alltech) and his wife, Mrs. Deirdre Lyons. Both Irish born, Dr. and Mrs. Lyons founded Alltech in 1982. Their headquarters is located in Lexington, KY was founded in 1982.

Richmond, KY: Our fist flight of the tour! Richmond saw us two well-earned, consecutive days off which we spent soaking up the beautiful southern weather in Lexington. Spirits were high as we were performing so close to the world-famous Kentucky Derby due to begin that weekend.

Knoxville, TN:  The beautiful, sunny weather continued as did celebrations for Cinco de Mayo which commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over France in 1862 at the Battle of Puebla. Live music and craft stalls near Summit Hill Drive marked the famous fifth day of May.

Salem, VA:  We put our minds to the test with a general knowledge team quiz with some of the members from the band and the tappers at Buffalo Wild Wings. Go ‘Team Cidona’!

Wilkes-Barre, PA: Our old loyal friend and tour masseuse, Tony Clark comes to visit from the nearby town of Scranton. Always missed Tony!

Greensburg, VA: Dance captain, Maeve Croke celebrates her birthday in style at a wine- tasting party in the Ramada Hotel organised by several of the dancers. Happy birthday again Maeve!

Billy Kanally and his brother, Bobby at King's Pats having the famous Philly Cheese Steak in Downtown Philadelphia.

Philadelphia, PA:  The weekend finally arrives and we lap up our free time . Some embrace the touristy side of things and do the famous run up the Rocky steps. Some pay a visit to the renowned King Pat’s to taste the famous Philly Cheese Steak

I, on the other hand was lucky to visit my Philadelphia relations on Sunday morning and gobbled down some an authentic Irish breakfast fry

My Irish 'fry' - breakfast

Read this on the Riverdance website: Quebec to Philadelphia via 10 cities

13 Weeks, 55 Hotel rooms and approximately 13,600 Miles under our belt and I think it’s about time I splashed out on some good eye cream!  This past week has been the toughest so far. We accumulated 31 hours of travel over three days at the beginning of the week and on one occasion, the quiet coach broke down once more meaning we were tightly packed for an 11hr bus journey. But the show must go on and minus the tired bodies and some nasty flus creeping in, we had some great times!

Callum and Chloey before Callums first lead performance

Over the course of our few days in Cornwall, Oshawa and Peterborough, the dance troupe changed significantly with five members of the cast leaving to join the Australian/New Zealand tour. It’s always hard to say goodbye to our friends and cast changes also mean a few more rehearsals.  But it was nice to be back in a dance studio and a fine studio it was at the “Grand Theatre”, Quebec.  This was even more important for one of our new troupe members, Callum Spencer who in just a few short days after his arrival would perform male lead for the very first time.

We arrived into the all-French speaking city of Quebec on Friday and spending the weekend in this beautiful old city was a joy. Quebec is a must-see with its enchanting old buildings, most of which have been transformed into hotels, shops, restaurants etc including the impressive “Le Chateau Frontenac”. Dating back to wartimes, its hilly geography allowed the French a great viewing post for oncoming enemies. After lots of walking up these steep hills and through the Parisian-like streets, we took a load off at a local creperie and headed to bed early. On Saturday, we made a short trek to the harbour for brunch at Cafe du Monde.  Two-hour lunch breaks are not uncommon in Canada, so the restaurant was overflowing with businessmen and women enjoying the beautiful food and some even indulging in wine. Taking some inspiration, we accepted an invitation to join John Grimes’ family at their holiday home (Also the set of an Alfred Hitchcock film – I Confess some years ago) after the show that night . They put on a huge spread for everyone and we all had a wonderful evening, finished off in style at Mick Jagger’s favourite hotspot, Maurice.

Regretfully we had to say “Au Revoir” and arrived quite late the following day to the small town of Saguenay. The Théâtre du Palais Municipal was definitely unique with our backstage area host to the set of a local folk show. We were blown away by not one but four standing ovations throughout the show here, quelling any signs of pain or tiredness from some of our tougher days on tour. We paid a quick visit to the wonderful city of Ottawa and once again crossed the border, returning to USA and Bangor, Maine. We were all looking forward to our much anticipated day off on Wednesday, a travel day much different to what we’re used to as we were flying to Richmond, Kentucky. When we arrived, the warm weather (22C) was a nice change and we were spoiled that evening by our assistant company manager, Oran and production manager, Mark who offered pizza and beer for everyone at our outdoor pool. They also kindly provided a bus to take us to the mall the following day for some shopping and relaxation.

It was back to the grind on Friday and we were called in early for Callum’s review before our show. Callum did an amazing job and was even better the following day for his first lead performance at our matinee in Knoxville, Tenessee. Interestingly, he was dancing alongside Chloey Turner, who used to teach Callum when he was younger. The audience response was fantastic and Callum described it as “The best experience of my life”. Knoxville was also in celebratory form, as it was “Cinco de Miau” – a celebration held every 5th May to celebrate Mexican heritage and pride. A champagne reception was arranged by the staff at “Tenessee Theatre” after our show and it was also cast member Shane Cummin’s 22nd birthday. So with many reasons to celebrate, we moved on to the “Preservation Bar” and enjoyed the delightful sounds of a local bluegrass band – “Christabel and the Jons” to end a rather eventful week of tour.

Read this on the Riverdance website: Grand Theatre, Quebec to Cinco de Miau, Knoxville

The CN Tower, Kensington Market, Little Portugal and Bloor Street… Oh! Toronto how I have missed you. Riverdance returned to the fabulous city in Ontario exactly three years later except this time it wasn’t the Cannon Theatre on Yonge. It was to the exquisite Sony Centre in the heart of the financial district. For five final performances we bring you the phenomenon one last time.

Two bus loads of tired but excited dancers and musicians depart 1 Summers Lane, Hamilton, ON after another cracking performance. One hour later we are scattered within the lobby of the Hyatt on Queen Street West. Yes, Toronto we have landed! Please note we are well past the half way point in our tour and we have no concept of time anymore! Day equals night, night equals day. Being 11:30 at night doesn’t even enter the equation and, as you can imagine, everyone is anticipating exploring Toronto in their own way. Some enjoy setting into their hotel rooms and check out all the latest luxuries within. Some are keen to accommodate hungry tummies and others simply want to paint the town red! Whatever the curiosity, something is on offer!

For those lucky enough to have spent the blissful five weeks here previously, we know our way around and I am more than ready to hit my favourite spots all over again. After a quick supper I retire to my dreamy bed and no sooner has my head hit the pillow but I am out like a light. After a short fight with the alarm clock, I surface at half past nine. Boy, am I glad I won that fight because it would be sinful to sleep through a gorgeous sunny morning such that it was that Friday. I begin with a quick hot tea in the Tim Horton’s next to the hotel and with that I’m fuelled to hit the stores on Yonge-Dundas Square, in particular, the H&M in the Eaton Centre. Gentlemen you can choose to skip the next few lines if you please, women I urge you to read on!
Well once upon of time there was an Italian clothing designer who to this day is know as ‘Marni’. Long story short her limited collection was still on display in this particular H&M. Bare in mind, many’s the vogue magazine I stared at longingly wishing to own some of these ‘Marni’ creations. Wish granted: I managed to snap several outfits which were sitting all alone on a sale rack in the store. I am gladly reporting to Marni her collection has now gone to a happy home!
And we’re back….

Subject shopping is now closed and I take you through the rest of my day up Chinatown past all the many authentic restaurants, Asian food stores, hair salons and beauty parlors. It’s too early for dumplings but hunger strikes. I ignore the pangs, temporarily as I have brunch already planned. I finally reach my destination. Somewhere near and dear to me. I present to you; Kensington Market. Many is the afternoon I spent here lounging aimlessly about the narrow streets. I decided on an old favourite; The Grind House for a mug of cappuccino and a breakfast bagel. I sit out in the basking sun and do what I do best- people watch!

I am soon joined by Spanish dancers, Marita Martinez and Nelida Tirado (whom is temporarily filling in for Marita due to injury) and tapper, Jason E. Bernard. We spend the rest of the rest of the afternoon ducking in and out of old vintage stores, cheese-tasting and general fool-acting with locals

My Twitter obligations continue and I am happy to report that my capabilities to tweet on behalf of @Riverdance have, dare I say, improved! This time I report for the Sony Centre for the duration of our performances in Toronto. I was very proud to include live photographs from behind the scenes at ‘Canada AM’. Our Riverdance male troupe did us proud (despite a grumpy early start that morning!) Wouldn’t you think they’d be used to it by now?!

Peterborough, Ontario brought the end of an era for some of our dancers here in the Shannon. Veterans Padraic Moyles and Niamh O’ Connor bid adieu to the American stage after serving many years with the ‘American’ Company. Niamh and Padraic were joined by Lauren Smyth, James Keating and singer/ tap dancer, Micheal Wood on their transfer to our sister company, the Moy. Here they join the Moy on a six week tour of Australia and New Zealand until June. We wish them all the very best. But, as the saying goes, one door closes and another opens and it did just that for their replacements. We have since welcomed Megan Baffa, Owen Barrington, Ben Mapp, Tokiko Masuda and Callum Spencer. They shall complete the remaining seven weeks with the Shannon Company.

And this is where I leave you folks. Back on American soil next week!. Who needs National Geographic subscription when you have the Riverdance blogs?! I will take you to far off towns you have never thought of visiting. Live the American dream with me.
Slán!

Read this on the Riverdance website: Oh! Toronto how I have missed you

For Belfast native Jason O’Neill, being an audience member at one of the iconic show’s performances was a moment he’ll never forget.

I saw Riverdance when I was 10, and it just changed my life, said O’Neill, who now works as a lead dancer with the show.

It’s the last time they’ll be doing it in the United State for many years I’m sure, O’Neill said of the Farewell tour. They want to go to new countries and explore new places.

A blend of dance, music and song, Riverdance transforms Celtic traditions into a contemporary art form. Working with music by Bill Whelan, the group of dancers and musicians continues to inspire multiple generations of audiences.

The dance troupe, which premiered in Dublin in 1995, has had an amazing run for 17 years — and more than 10,000 performers.

Being a part of the show has enabled O’Neill, who joined the cast in 2009, to travel around Europe, Canada, Korea and the United States.

The schedule is a roller coaster, he said.

Despite the hectic travel, the performers have to stay in top shape. In addition to dancing, O’Neill runs, swims and skips rope.

It’s very challenging physically. I think the older you get, you learn to look after your body better.

You have to rest, and I put my legs on ice every night to keep inflation down, O’Neill said.

The dancer has found that life on the road actually can be better for his fitness regimen.

Your body adapts. It becomes a routine. Sometimes at home there are more distractions, and it gets difficult to get into it, he said.

The show’s run in the United States may be drawing to a close, but O’Neill hopes to remain a part of the Riverdance legacy.

At the end of the summer, it’s going on to South America, he said. I want to join and keep going on with the show.

Interview  with PostStar.com

Read this on the Riverdance website: A dream come true

It’s the last dance. After all those years of foot-stomping, heel-tapping, stiff-backed, step-dance prancing, the Riverdance folk are hanging up their shoes.  Well, that’s what we’re told anyway.
Truth is, it’s only the North American market that will see a hiatus of the popular show.
“We’re going to India and China, lots of places,” says sprightly Caterina Coyne,  Riverdance star and champion Irish dancer. “And there will be a new Irish dance show in North America from the Riverdance folks before you can say leprechaun. You can count on that.”
Coyne was born in Surrey, England, but grew up dancing in Ireland. This summer, she’ll be dancing her feet off in Dublin at The Gaiety Theatre before having a holiday in Galway where she has a permanent home.

“You could say Riverdance started as a real phenomenon. I mean, it was a small part of a Eurovision Song Contest in 1994. It just took off from there. It was partly Bill Whelan’s music and partly the smart dance steps I suppose. It’s just been entertaining people ever since.”
“It’s a gruelling thing to dance eight Riverdance shows a week,” Coyne says. “Hard on the knees, legs and back. It makes you ache all over. Doing it on tour, as we are now, every night is opening night and you feel such responsibility to make the show good.”
Coyne says a physiotherapist travels with the troupe and is kept busy all the time.
“The thing is you forget how hard it is when you’re up there doing the performance. It’s just all about making the show work.”
Coyne says the life of a dancer is governed by injury and health, so you protect yourself the best way you can.
“You’ve got to look after yourself. People come and go in this show, but I’m in it for the long haul. And that’s because I love it.”
Coyne has been stomping those feet for eight years now and she has no intention of stopping.
“I love the choreography. It’s 100 per cent high-energy stuff. Is it traditional Irish step dance? Yes and no. The costumes, of course, are quite different. Irish folk dance outfits would be too heavy and cumbersome for what we do. I just know that before Riverdance there was nothing really for an Irish dancer. This show changed all that.”
Coyne admits there are recorded taps to augment the live performance on stage, but she says these sweeteners on the soundtrack are just that, a form of augmentation.
“We’re doing everything flat out, I can tell you that.”
Coyne laughs when you suggest the show is as much about guys in tight pants and girls in micro-minis as it is about dance.
“If you’re saying the show makes Irish dancing sexy, that’s true enough. And it’s definitely a show where you’re free to express yourself. What isn’t traditional about it is the way we use our hands. That’s not really part of Irish folk dance.”
Coyne dances the star part in this travelling production and she says that means being an example.
“The other dancers look up to you. And in some ways you are the face of the show. People expect plenty of you.”

Gary Smith has written on theatre and dance for The Hamilton Spectator for more than 30 years

Read this on the Riverdance website: Dancing off into sunset, for now

Although music has always had a prominent place in her life, Niamh Ní Charra didn’t plan on a career as a professional musician. She was studying to be an electrical engineer, in fact, when fate stepped in to take her life in a completely new direction.

“I always loved playing music, but I also believed I’d never make a living out of it so I was studying engineering to have a career,” Ní Charra said in a phone interview with Boston Event Guide. “I was playing a seisiún, which is a sort of jam session for traditional Irish music, at The Burren in Somerville and some people from the Riverdance show happened to be in the audience. When an opening came up with the company later on, they contacted me and asked if I wanted to join them. I immediately said yes.”

Ní Charra ended up touring as a fiddler with Riverdance for eight years, leaving the show six years ago to pursue her own music career. Last year, as the producers started putting together the lineup for the show’s grand finale tour, they asked Ní Charra to come back on the road for, as she put it, a final ‘hurrah!’

“It’s been a much more emotional experience than I imagined it would be,” Ní Charra said about joining Riverdance for its final tour. “I knew it was a big deal just from the amount of emails and phone calls I’ve been getting from friends asking me to get them tickets – which is quite flattering in itself – but the emotion we feel from the audience when we’re up on the stage is very powerful. I don’t want to say this is just a job for us, because we all love performing in the show, but when you’re in the middle of it it’s not always easy to get any perspective on what it means to people. Folks grew up with this show. They take Irish dance classes because they saw it, or learn to play the fiddle after watching Riverdance. That’s amazing, when you think about it.”

Riverdance will be at The Opera House, Boston April 13-15. Tickets start at $28.

BroadwayInBoston.com

Read this on the Riverdance website: Ní Charra Returns to Fiddle for Final Riverdance Fling

Riverdance was born in 1995, the energetic young offspring of Big Eighties shows like Phantom of the Opera and Miss Saigon.

It was bred with that curious – and theatrically unsustainable – mind-set that bigger is better. It’s a lovely relic – unlikely, it seems, to have made such a remarkable global impression if it were born in these cost-conscious times.

That makes its last stop in Boston – April 13-15 at Boston Opera House – a milestone worth recognizing.

Of course, there’s no future in shows built around helicopters hovering above stage, and it’s probably also a deal-breaker to tour a dance show that requires teams of professional dancers. Dance, like plays, has gotten small. And although we all know it’s dangerous to trade art for opulence, there’s no denying the power of a line of dancers – extending from one end of Boston’s biggest stages to the other – hammering out tightly choreographed Irish dance steps that look like the height of military precision and sound like Celtic thunder.

The show is a feat of teamwork, built around the idea of a dancer being part of a whole, being part of something bigger than herself. Despite the fact that the show gave us Michael Flatley,  Riverdance is not a show about stars, it’s about the company. And, arriving on the heels of street-bred dance shows like Stomp and Bring in ’da Noise, Bring in ’da Funk, Riverdance  found humor and insight with its playful competition between step and tap dancers, a competition that’s clearly more of an appreciation than a rivalry.
Dancing is in these days, as you may have noticed. And it’s not really professional dancing; it’s the amateurs who are stealing the show. Ellen DeGeneres’ dancing became a signature moment of her hit talk show, and we cringe at the foibles of the overmatched “stars” of Dancing with the Stars, but deep down we admire them for dancing like nobody is watching, even though everyone is watching.
You can’t give Riverdance all the credit, but it surely deserves some of it. Just ask the suburban moms trundling their kids off not to soccer games, but to Irish step-dancing classes and competitions, complete with over-the-top costumes, sometimes hand-sewn by moms who can’t explain their kids’ obsession, but secretly love it. It’s a phenomenon that certainly wouldn’t have occurred with such force without frequent Riverdance stops in Boston, rousing our Irish roots.

It’s a fitting legacy for the show. I remember when I first saw Riverdance all those years ago, it seemed odd that the audience sat so still, spiritually moved by the spectacle onstage, but physically, literally, unmoved. Good dancing makes you want to dance, and Riverdance does that. Not only is this incoming production a chance to see, one last time, one of the defining touring shows of the past 20 years, it’s a chance to pay tribute to a show that, I’m sure, swells the ranks of local dance classes, where young girls and boys turn step dancing from something you simply see into something you do.

Read more: www.patriotledger.com/entertainment

Where: Opera House, Boston, MA
When: April 13, 2012 – April 15, 2012.
Shows: Friday & Saturday at 8pm. Sunday at 6.30pm
Matinee: Saturday at 2pm & Sunday at 1pm

Read this on the Riverdance website: “one of the defining touring shows of the past 20 years”