The Magic Of Riverdance 30th Anniversary Tour

18th December 2025

There are some shows that simply capture your heart, and for me, one of those is Riverdance, which I have seen a few times on TV while recording it. When I heard the iconic global sensation was returning to the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith to celebrate its 30th anniversary, I knew I had to be there. But this second viewing was far more than just a wonderful evening out; it was a deeply emotional experience, connecting the buzzing atmosphere of the present with a cherished memory from the past.

About ten years ago, I experienced the magic of Riverdance live for the first time with my late grandad. While I shared a deeply close bond with both my late grandparents, my grandad and I especially loved to watch this breathtaking form of dance together. I had already bought tickets well in advance for the tour, and I was planning to surprise him with a second chance to see the show at the same venue. As the lights dimmed and the stage lit up, the joy, the rhythm, and the heartfelt memories of that afternoon with him came flooding back, and I couldn’t hold back my tears. This time, my lovely mum accompanied me.

Join me as I share the excitement of the show and reflect on how this landmark production continues to move hearts, bridge generations, and keep the spirit of Irish dance—and the memories of those we love alive.

Riverdance troupe performing on stage in front with the audience watching. There is a cloudy sunny backdrop behind them.

A Bit About Riverdance And How It Started

Riverdance is a theatrical show that primarily consists of traditional Irish music and dance, but it is presented with a spectacular, modern, and often globalised approach.

It is considered a worldwide entertainment phenomenon that is widely credited with revitalising and popularising Irish dance on the global stage.

Riverdance began as a powerful, seven-minute interval act during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest in Dublin. The performance, which featured Irish dancing champions Michael Flatley and Jean Butler with music by Bill Whelan. It received a standing ovation and became an instant global sensation.

The show quickly expanded into a full-length touring theatrical production, which premiered in Dublin in 1995. The show tells a story, often based on Irish history, blending traditional Irish dance (characterised by rapid, intricate footwork with the upper body held largely still) with international dance styles like Spanish Flamenco and American tap dance.

Booking Tickets

I remember when I tried to book access tickets for this show I couldn’t get through to speak to someone. I called the dedicated booking line numerous times and I also tried emailing them but no one replied. It was getting frustrating at this point because I knew getting accessible seating is limited and the spaces go very quickly. I had to get my hands on those tickets. I asked my colleague to give it a try from their end and see if they have any luck. It was still the same for them. I also went to the venue to get tickets and was told that they are closed and only open when shows are on, which was not very helpful. I tried to find a name of a manager online and I emailed them, but I got no response. Eventually, after weeks of trying I managed to get a response by email and somebody from the venue called me. This is one of the reasons why Access My Events exists to help remove barriers such as this and for event organisers and venues to improve accessibility. There are many other challenges, but this is just one of those I had to get through.

Venue Accessibility And Getting There

Luckily, the venue is not far from where I live, and my dad dropped us off just outside the Apollo at 6.30pm when the doors opened. We lined up for a few minutes in the disabled access queue and went up the ramp in my wheelchair straight inside. We had to get our bags checked by security staff and our tickets scanned. Once done, we were led into the hall and shown to our seats. We had a good view of the stage, which was great. The show wasn’t due to start until 7.30pm, so we had enough time to settle in and enjoy the atmosphere while people were arriving and taking their seats. The seats filled up, and the show started on time.

Riverdance troupe, tap dancers and flamenco performing all together on stage. Above them there are lot of headlights shinning on them. The backdrop shows clouds on the outside with a circle in the middle and within the circle is a large moon showing three musicians playing instruments with audience members watching in front.

One male and female member of Riverdance performing intricate footwork to music. The stage is lit up with a backdrop of a large moon and stars with lights beaming out. There are some stairs behind them.

Riverdance 30 The New Generation

13th December 2025

The excitement built as the lights dimmed and the stage lit up with the VT showcasing Riverdance and how it started to how it has developed over the years, from the variation of the costumes, lighting and performances from past generations of the dance troupe to new faces taking Riverdance onto global stages into something truly special that captures the hearts of many people. The show had different scenes, each of which represented a journey through Irish history, with Riverdance performed by male and female dancers, performing individually and together. The show also featured singers, musicians, tap dancers and Flamenco.

Highlights From The Show

The main highlights for me where when the dancers performed individually and together, showcasing there incredible footwork with and without music. The precision, accuracy and timing is absolutely fantastic. I enjoyed the battle of the drummers on each side of the stage with a male dancer doing a Riverdance sequence. The drummers played, followed by a different sequence each time with each beat being different. The tap dancers were fantastic as well, competing with each other who can perform better. It was wonderful to watch.

Drummers walking onto the stage while playing the drums on the right hand side and three musicians are playing instruments on the left of the stage in front of the audience. There is a cloudy, sunny backdrop with a river and mountains.

Zubee standing next to her grandad on the grass holding his hand in his beautiful with colourful flowers on either side. Zubee is wearing a black and gold embellished dress. Zubee's grandad is wearing a plain white salwar kameez. This is South Asian traditional clothes.

The Grand Finale

As the applause and the sound of the vibrations that are created when the entire troupe join in line, in full synchronisation, the hall erupted with a standing ovation, and I felt a mix of bittersweet emotions. The show was brilliant! Every step, every move and energy on that stage was breathtaking. It was the kind of spectacle that leaves you buzzing long after the curtain falls.

The seat beside me was a heartfelt reminder of who wasn't there to share it with me. I know my grandad would have loved every second of it. I could practically hear his delighted voice during the fast-paced ensemble numbers and see him moving his finger to the rhythm and saying to me, "it’s just fantastic!" Every time the music went faster, I imagined his eyes shining with his lovely smile, which he always had when we watched Riverdance together. It was our thing, and experiencing it without him felt like beautiful sounds played with one missing beat. I love you, and I miss you, Agha Gee.❤️ (This is the name I used to address my grandad by as a form of respect and affection).

By Zubee Kibria