The first time I saw the Irish dancing phenom “Riverdance,” the babysitter backed out at the last minute. I almost didn’t go.
My Irish mother — god rest her soul — was determined. She showed up at my house, umbrella stroller in hand, and, in the commando voice of my childhood, barked, “Get the baby wrap! We’re going!”
I do not recommend this to other parents of young children. My daughter was an unusually deep sleeper. My son wouldn’t have lasted a minute in front of that fast-moving, fairly loud musical spectacular. But, I will never forget show originators Michael Flatley and Jean Butler as they stepdanced their way into the hearts of everyone in the audience, including, I am sure, my sleeping baby.
Flash forward to the 30th anniversary run of “Riverdance,” now playing at The Paramount Theatre through this weekend. To say this newest version of the show is impressive would be an understatement.
A cultural bath
This show is even more breathtaking than my first experience (which makes sense, given the vast improvements in stage visuals over the past three decades). It’s stunning. And while Flatley and Butler made my heart pound underneath that baby wrap way back when, Anna Mai Fitzpatrick and Fergus Fitzpatrick, the Irish siblings who lead this troupe, made my soul soar and my feet itch to dance. Such technique, such stage presence, so much passion, art, and speed.
I wasn’t alone in my awe. The crowd around us was equally entranced.
“Riverdance” is more than Irish stepdancing, however. It’s Ireland. From singers to musicians on traditional Irish instruments to the stream of dancers, the show incorporates the country’s ancestral connection to the ethereal while showcasing its more contemporary approaches to traditional arts. This time, I tried to keep count of the number of singers and musicians flowing on and offstage. I gave up by the intermission.
My co-reviewer appreciated the lengthy tap dance competition and the inclusion of a flamenco dancer in the show, lest anyone tire of the Irish theme. I enjoyed those acts as well, but I could hear my mother rolling in her grave. (“How could anybody tire of Irish anything?“)
Don’t be surprised …
Word of warning to parents: The passion for Irish dance can be contagious, and it can be addicting. If you take kids to this show, you might find yourself looking up Irish dance schools in the area (there are several).
Failing that, mark your calendar for next March when you can get your fill again at St. Patrick’s Day festivities downtown and at Seattle Center.
In truth, after seeing the inaugural “Riverdance” in 1996, I signed myself up for stepdancing lessons — as a 30-year-old. Alas, surrounded by far more energetic and far faster 10-year-olds, I eventually hung up my shoes and returned to stepdancing only in my dreams.
There is a reason why a show plays too often packed audiences for 30 years: it keeps reinventing itself in ways that embody its original fire and fans that flame with new energy and incredible talent.
Shows end this weekend
Tickets are still available for today’s shows at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., as well as tomorrow’s shows at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. This show is good for all ages, but is recommended for kids ages 3 or older (old enough to sit through two hours with one 15 minute intermission). Tickets prices start at $48.89 on Saturday, $49.89 on Sunday.
