Riverdance returns to Shanghai for a week of performances at the Shanghai Grand Theatre in January, 15 years after it debuted on the Eurovision Song Contest and put Irish dancing on the world map.

Unlike the various troupes that have visited the city claiming to be inspired by the original since it first came to Shanghai six years ago, this is the real deal.

"This is the 100-percent-authentic Riverdance, and they are making an unprecedented tour of China," said Ding Zhiyuan, general manager of the Shanghai Municipal Performance Company.

Riverdance, the most famous Irish step dancing show, has toured more than 30 countries since its premiere in 1995. It combines elements of ballet, Spanish flamenco and modern dance movements to tell a story of Ireland's national history.

The best dancers from Riverdance's European and American touring teams will come together for the China tour, with enough props and costumes to fill giant shipping containers. They will even bring their own dance floor.

"The special dance floor is made up of three parts. The surface is a sponge-like material, and underneath are two layers of wood with microphones hidden in between," said tour manager Brendan McLoushlin.

Michael McGuire, who set a new Guinness World Record by performing 191 taps in 30 seconds last month, will join the group along with award-winning dancers Brendan Dorris and Manson Siobhan, who will highlight the China shows. Siobhan has already made a good impression in the country by performing earlier this year for the CCTV Spring Festival Gala.

Ding said they chose the Shanghai Grand because it affords greater intimacy.

"It only has about 2,000 seats, so audiences can get a closer view and enjoy the show better. I'm sure they will be awed by the show and the incredible dancing steps."

McLoushlin said that no matter how many times fans watch the show, it never gets old.

"People come even if they have already seen it on the Web or on TV. Some see it more than just once. I think that's because dancing appeals to all, without any language barrier."

Riverdance will tour 13 cities in China from December including stops at Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Wuhan and Hangzhou before it reaches Shanghai.

Jan 5-10, 7:15 pm (also 2 pm performances from Jan 9-10)

Shanghai Grand Theatre

300 Renmin Avenue

人民大道300号

Tel: 6272-1976

Tickets: 280-1,280 yuan

Zhang Kun

(China Daily 11/21/2009 page14)