In addition to a timeless score by Bill Whelan and a new all-female number titled “Anna Livia,” the production features original choreography by Michael Flatley among others, direction by John McColgan, a four-piece band, six Russian folk dancers, two singers and much more.
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“When I was younger I remember thinking how amazing the choreography was,” said principal lead dancer Bobby Hodges, a native of Bristol, England, who started dancing when he was 6. “When I think about the show now, it’s a combination of many things especially Bill Whelan’s gripping music and Michael Flatley’s choreography which offered a new way of looking at Irish dancing.
"He took Irish dancing to places it had never been and look what a mass appeal it has had around the world. For instance, the choreography is full of synchronicity. Michael put 30 people in a line and told them to do the exact same thing at the exact same time. It's so powerful and perfect. Everyone in the show has been dancing and training for years and we still rehearse every day while on the road."
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Along with winning 10 world titles as a competitive Irish dancer, Hodges has also appeared as a principal lead dancer in “Lord of the Dance” and “Heartbeat of Home.” He enjoys having an opportunity to play different characters to a degree in “Riverdance” which uniquely incorporates themes for each musical number rather than featuring one basic storyline.
"In Act 1, 'Reel Around the Sun' is very powerful and regal so it's fun to be able to be very proud and strong," Hodges noted. "My personal favorite scene is 'Trading Taps' in Act 2. The scene involves Irish tap dancers meeting American tap dancers and we have a trade-off, almost like a dance battle. It's a cheeky, high-energy scene that's a crowd favorite. I always look forward to its variety. There really is something for everyone in this show."
WANT TO GO?
What: "Riverdance – The 20th Anniversary World Tour"
Where: Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets, Dayton
When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 28
Cost: $40.50-$82.50
Tickets: Call Ticket Center Stage (937) 228-3630 or visit www.daytonperformingarts.org
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