Of all the performances to emerge from Ireland in the past
decade, nothing can compare to the energy and the spectacle of
”
Riverdance.
”
An innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song,
”
Riverdance
”
draws on Irish traditions and combines the talents of the
performers to propel Irish dancing and music to the present day,
capturing the imagination of audiences of all ages and
cultures.
Of all the performances to emerge from Ireland in the past decade, nothing can compare to the energy and the spectacle of “Riverdance.” An innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song, “Riverdance” draws on Irish traditions and combines the talents of the performers to propel Irish dancing and music to the present day, capturing the imagination of audiences of all ages and cultures. This extraordinarily unique show features an energetic, well-trained international company.
Produced by Moya Doherty, directed by John McColgan with music by Bill Whelan, “Riverdance” has played more than 10,000 performances and has been seen live by more than 21 million people in more than 32 countries and four continents. They have traveled more than 563,000 miles, and played to a worldwide television audiences of nearly two billion. They have sold more than three million copies of their Grammy Award-winning CD and more than 10 million videos.
Traditional music holds a special place in Ireland. To many Irish, it has a defining role culturally and provides an authentic and eloquent link to their past. The musicians ranged at the sides of the stage with unique interesting instruments. A small drum called the bodhran, along with the unique uillean pipe, tin whistles, fiddle, saxophone, bouzouki and a keyboard make up the distinctive “Riverdance” band. Their blend of music and solos are some of the highlights of the production.
“Riverdance” began as a seven-minute dance segment on the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest that was televised throughout Europe to an audience of three million viewers. The reaction was incredible and from there grew to into a full-scale production to become Ireland’s greatest ambassador. Now, after a celebrated 15-year run, this limited engagement will be the final tour, and everyone is invited to the farewell performances.
“Riverdance” incorporates dance and music from other countries. The Moscow Folk Ballet Company adds some high-flying tumbling and there is some tap dancing and flamenco stomping thrown in for good measure.
Few shows have touched audiences as “Riverdance” has. A celebration of Irish music, song and dance, the show focuses on the evolution of Irish dance and its similarities with – and influences on – other cultures. The phenomenon of “Riverdance” draws on Irish traditions and combines the richness of the music with the sensuality of the dance with a vision and a concept that was brought richly to life by innovative choreography, charismatic dancers and musicians, changing the perception of Irish music and dance forever. For a unique evening that will touch the Irish soul and energize all others, “Riverdance” is the answer.
***
‘Riverdance’
Where: San Jose Center For The Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd., San Jose
Through: Through Jan. 3
Tickets: $22-$88
Details: (408) 792-4111 or visit.BroadwaySanJose.com
