Riverdance

Ovens Auditorium

March 3, 2009

The Deal: Riverdance, a production specializing in Irish step dancing and traditional Irish music tapped its way into Charlotte last night for an opening night performance at Ovens Auditorium.

The Good: The show featured a number of dance moves from an array of talented tappers. This included traditional step dancing with all the extra ingredients, from jumping splits to twists. Highlights included "Firedance," which featured a stunning performance by The Riverdance Flamenco Soloist, Rocio Montoya, a dance round about during "American Wake," and "The Russian Dervish" dance by The Moscow Folk Ballet. But, that's just to point out a few. Through the course of the night, which included one intermission, The Riverdance Irish Dance Troupe performed a set of spirited dance moves. At one point during the performance a tapping stand-off even went down between traditional Irish tappers and some more modern tappers. Along in the stand-off a musician playing the fiddle took on a musician playing the saxophone. Both groups/musicians were impressive, taking on a series of fast paced moves. In addition, traditional Irish songs were played by a skilled back drop of musicians, some of which were even sung in Gaelic language.

The Bad: Not much of anything. At one point, during one of the softer songs I became a little distracted by various people in the crowd coughing. People: If you're sick, stay home!

The Verdict: Check it out, especially if you're into dance or anything related to Ireland. Riverdance will take you on what feels like a journey through Ireland via talented dance moves and traditional Irish melodies.