It is hard to believe that Riverdance is now 30 years old. To celebrate the milestone, an anniversary production paying homage to the very best of Irish dance and Celtic heritage, is currently undertaking an extensive world tour - including a stop off in the Potteries this week.

Riverdance has been seen by millions over the past three decades and so this new incarnation - incorporating The New Generation of dancers - has been eagerly awaited. None of the dancers in the show were born when Riverdance first aired and their youth and vibrancy ensures that the show is fresh, dynamic and utterly captivating.

Originally composed by Bill Whelan, Riverdance weaves Irish history and legend from the dawn of time on the Emerald Isle, through to the dispersal of the population to all corners of the world - hence the show seamlessly fusing both traditional Irish and international dance.

From the moment the show opens with ethereal music and song, the pace begins to move rapidly with the characteristic and evocative Irish instrumentation to the signature beat of the Irish dancers on stage.  In the first Act, the audience is taken on an epic journey incorporating the ancestral beginning of time where primitive people were in tune with nature and the land - and where the power of love and connection were key to survival. The Celtic mythology and legend is ever present and as such, the show has a magical quality alongside awe-inspiring movement.
In Act two, the journey of the Irish people takes the dance to far off places such as America and  Andalucia where Irish dancing fuses with tap (provided by the hugely talented Riverdance Tappers) and flamenco (performed magnificently by Rocio Dusmet). 

The overall choreography is outstanding and the creative integration of different dance genres is exceptional. Another intriguing element in the show is the inclusion of The Riverside Dervish Ensemble performing exciting Eastern European dance movement.

The show features the 'best of the best of Irish dancers' and for that reason alone it is one not to be missed as from start to finish the performance is both electrifying and mesmerising. The whole ensemble delivers talent and timing to perfection. Principal dancers which must be noted are Olivia Nachtigal, whose magnetic enthusiasm and exceptional ability shone throughout the entire show, and Fergus Fitzpatrick who gave a superb performance.

A big shout out must also go to the musicians on stage - the wonderful Cathal Croke playing the incredibly evocative Uilleann Pipes and Whistles; Mark Alfred playing the atmospheric Bodhran and percussion; Hayley Richardson playing the Fiddle to perfection and Emma McPhilemy playing the emotive saxophone. Riverdance really is as much about the music as it is about the dance.

Of course, the creative team behind the production are top of their game and the atmospheric visuals and lighting, stunning costumes, incredible choreography and overall direction and production make Riverdance 30: The New Generation, an absolute top show not to be missed.

Riverdance is without doubt the most dynamic, vibrant, emotional and life-enhancing theatre experience you will get to see on stage and the fact that it is here in Stoke-on-Trent this week is an absolute treat.

Five stars

Reviewed by Carol Lovatt at the Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent on Tuesday 28 October.
Riverdance 30: The New Generation continues to show at the venue until Friday 31 October.