“Riverdance,” the international smash-hit Irish-dance musical, is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a world tour that is jigging its way through June 19 at the Academy of Music.
The production’s out dance captain, Andrew O’Reilly — who began his professional career alongside Michael Flatley in “Celtic Tiger” before touring in the “Riverdance” cast for five years and starring in “Footstorm” — talked to PGN about the legacy of the popular show.
PGN: Why has “Riverdance” remained so popular for so long?
AO: “Riverdance” was the first production to showcase Irish dance in an entertaining and exciting way. It became massively popular from its onset, and the synchronized rhythms and movements is a spectacle that cannot be seen in any other show. “Riverdance” is such a specific genre of dance that is performed to amazing Irish music that really has withstood the test of time. It’s become a cultural ambassador of Ireland that is touching and moving to experience. I think all these aspects together have allowed audiences to be entertained by “Riverdance” over and over again.
PGN: Has the show changed in any way over the course of its 20 years?
AO: While the show has maintained its cultural essence, it has also changed quite a lot in 20 years. There is an updated set and costumes and more up-to-date choreography. Most recently, to celebrate the 20th anniversary, a new dance number was added to the show. This dance in the second act, called “Anna Livia,” celebrates the strength and power of Irish women and is danced a capella.
PGN: How would you describe the show’s audience and fan base?
AO: The fans of “Riverdance” are amazing. We have loyal followers of the show throughout the world, that the cast now know by name. Some fans have seen the show over 40 times. It’s great to go out of the stage door and meet local Irish dancers who aspire to be a part of the show when they are of age. It’s a great feeling to know that our performances mean something to the fans and can inspire them in many ways. The reason why I started dancing at all was because I went to watch “Riverdance” as a child and begged my parents for lessons, so I am a “Riverdance” fan myself!
PGN: As dance captain, what is the most challenging aspect of your job?
AO: Dance captain can be a tough but rewarding job. There are a variety of aspects to stay on top of. Each show is different with different cast members performing different roles and moving spots in each dance. It’s the dance captain’s responsibility to make sure every spot in every dance is covered and each dancer is comfortable in their spots. Staying on top of dancers’ technique and performance is also integral to make sure each show is the highest quality it can be. On top of that, I have to work alongside lighting, sound, wardrobe and stage management to ensure everyone is in the “loop” of exactly who is doing what in each performance. We always make sure every spot has a “cover” in case of injury so that, if someone goes down during the show, we have someone to cover that person and the show will not be affected.
PGN: How do you think “Riverdance” has influenced live theater and pop culture?
AO: “Riverdance” has become a household name. It’s become an integral part of the theater world, performing to millions of people throughout the globe. It celebrates the history and passion of Ireland and this is extremely important, especially those of Irish heritage that are no longer living in Ireland. “Riverdance” has put Ireland and Irish dance on the map and is constantly mentioned in popular television shows and movies. “Riverdance” will always be the original, and the best! n
The Kimmel Center presents “Riverdance: 20th Anniversary World Tour” through June 19 at Kimmel’s Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St. For more information, call 215-790-5800 or visit http://riverdance.com/usa/.