‘Global phenomenon’ Riverdance announces 30th anniversary tour

The Riverdance troupe, which “has transformed from a spectacle into a global cultural phenomenon”, has announced it will tour 30 UK venues next year to celebrate a milestone anniversary.

The group, which has its roots in Irish dancing, rose to become a headline act after being featured during the interval of the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest in Dublin.

This developed into a full-length show, changing the face of Irish dance and music and bringing the group global success.

For the 30th anniversary, Riverdance also welcomes a new generation of performers who were not born when the show began.

John McColgan, director of Riverdance, said: “It is both a privilege and a delight to celebrate 30 years of Riverdance and the unique journey it has taken us on.

“In those 30 years the show has transformed from a spectacle into a global cultural phenomenon – continuously evolving yet remaining true to its Irish roots.

“On this upcoming tour we look forward to welcoming the new generation of artists while paying tribute to the talented performers, creators, dedicated crew, and the millions of fans who have made Riverdance a worldwide celebration of music and dance.”

Kicking off at Swansea Arena on August 12 2025, the troupe will perform three nights at the venue before heading to Sheffield City Hall from August 16 to August 18.

There will also be stops at Blackpool, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

The tour will end at London’s Hammersmith Apollo from December 9 to 14.

“Being part of Riverdance’s journey is an absolute honour, it’s truly a dream come true to get to perform the principal role in this phenomenon,” said Fergus Fitzpatrick, the principal dancer and dance captain.

“As we approach our 30th anniversary, the excitement for the incredible work our team and creative talents are about to unveil is palpable.

“I can’t wait to see what they will produce and feel the excited pulse of the audience’s response.

“This milestone is not just a celebration of Riverdance’s past but a light that inspires the new generation of performers all around the world.”

Padraic Moyles, chief executive and producer, and a former lead dancer, said the anniversary is “a testament to the dedication, care and passion of everyone who has contributed to the Riverdance journey”.

The music for the new shows is composed by Bill Whelan, and they will be produced by Moya Doherty.

Whelan won a Grammy for his Riverdance album in 1997.

Amy Mae Dolan, principal dancer and dance captain, said being part of Riverdance has been “one of the greatest honours of my life”.

She added: “I am fascinated to see how Riverdance continues to grow and evolve over the next decade. I have no doubt that it will continue to surpass our expectations, move audiences and inspire new generations for dancers to come.”

Other venues being visited are the Brighton Centre, Portsmouth Guildhall, Bristol Hippodrome, Plymouth Pavilions, Utilita Arena Cardiff, De Montfort Hall in Leicester and York Barbican.

American dancers Michael Flatley and Jean Butler were among the original performers who captured the Eurovision audience when they delivered an eight-minute dance on April 30 1994 at The Point theatre.

Tickets for the tour go on sale on March 22 at 10am.