Riverdance
If you’ve never seen the phenomenon that is RIVERDANCE, then catch it quick at the venerable Pantages Theatre, in Hollywood. This dance and song, as well as eerily quasi-religious, evening is energetic, intelligent and professional. It captures a quintessentially Irish experience, pre-Christian in spots (hymns to the moon and to the sun), exuberant line dancing in the best theatrical tradition of the Radio City Music Hall, Spanish flamenco, and American tap, especially good when the rural meets the urban.
It’s a wonderful evening, not diminished by age (sixteen when it finally grinds to a halt next spring) or familiarity. The average age of the facile Irish straight-leg dancers look to be in their early twenties (you gotta wonder what happens to knees and ankles the way they pound the floor), so youthful energy and split-second precision is welcomed, indeed. And with the women all demonstrating gorgeous legs and the men grand butts, it is seriously visual, as well.
The producers (Julian Erskine, Moya Doherty), director John McColgan, composer (Bill Whelan) and production designers (Robert Ballagh, sets; Joan Bergin, costumes; Michael O’Gorman, sound; Rupert Murray, Lighting) have created a lasting and beautiful work of art.
The two leads, Padraic Moyles and Alana Mallon demonstrate the true artistry of the Irish modern dance, with Moyles reflecting very little of the dreadful arrogance the original Lord of the Dance (!) gave us way back when. Other lead dancers are Craig Ashurst, Caterina Coyne, Jason O’Neill and Chloey Turner, each skilled in their set.
Other grateful notice must be given to the four musicians, Matt Bashford on Uillean Pipes and Low Whistle; Pat Mangan on Fiddle; Mark Alfred on Drums/Percussion/Bodhran, and Dave McGauran on Saxophone. The music is amazingly performed, supporting the dancers and singers and shining on their own.
One can find it on DVD and on CD, but live is way better.
At the Pantages Theatre, Hollywood, through November 20th. 1.800.982.2787 for tickets. Or at BroadwayLA.org.