Irish dancing sensation Riverdance has some pretty odd origins: It began as a composition for the Eurovision Song Contest, an international competition featuring original pop songs representing various European countries. Composer Bill Whelan based the original piece, which debuted at 1994’s Eurovision, on a previous Eurovision composition of his titled “Timedance.” From those unlikely beginnings, Riverdance became an international phenomenon, fusing traditional Irish dance with modern musical theater and pop-music sensibilities and launching the careers of stars like Michael Flatley.
The current Riverdance tour, coming to Las Vegas for a run starting Jan. 26, celebrates the show’s 20th anniversary, and includes classic performances along with new costumes, lighting and design, plus a new number showcasing the troupe’s female members.
Since beginning in 1995, Riverdance has been seen by more than 24 million people, and it’s still going strong. What began as an effort by one Irish composer to highlight his country’s cultural heritage has since become a global juggernaut.
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 26-29, 2 & 7:30 p.m. Jan. 30-31, starting at $29 plus tax and fee. 702.749.2000
