How to Riverdance

Irish step dancers

"Riverdance" is a full-scale musical production that was choreographed by Michael Flatley and originally starred Flatley and Jean Butler. It features Irish step dance infused with Russian, folk, tap and Spanish dance. The show premiered in 1995 in Ireland and went on to break box office records in London and around the world, making it a beloved sensation. In 1996, "Riverdance: The New Show" was performed at Radio City Music Hall in New York City before a live audience and recorded as a documentary film. With the success of the show, the term "Riverdance" has also become a verb of sorts used to describe dancing in the style of the original production. These tips will show you how to riverdance like the stars of the show.

Things You'll Need

• Heeled Irish step shoes
• Dance wear

Instructions

1. 

   Enroll in Irish step dance class. Whether you want to audition for the show "Riverdance" or just learn to dance like the stars for fun, the most important thing to learn is Irish step dance. Competition is a key part of the genre, so much so that the producers of "Riverdance" look to hire world champions. Once you've taken some classes, begin to compete to discover your skill level.

2. 

   Study tap dance. Although Riverdance is largely made up of Irish step dance, tap dance is incorporated and will help you build strong feet and rhythm skills.

3. Purchase or rent the DVD "Riverdance: The New Show" and study the emotion of each dance. There are different styles including the hard shoe and the soft shoe. You will need to learn both styles to audition for the show, but studying the DVD will also help you decide which style you prefer, even if you are just learning for the fun of it.

4. 

   Practice and perform. The only way to grow as both a dancer and a performer is to consistently do both. Practice your steps as often as you can. Take as many classes as you have time to take and can afford, and perform in shows and competitions whenever opportunities present themselves. With practice and training, you may be well on your way to dancing like a "Riverdance" star.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan to audition for "Riverdance" the show, have a full-body recording made of your dancing and a professional, full-body head shot taken. (See resources for additional requirements.)

References

• Riverdance, The Irish Phenomenon, Help Section
• Riverdance: Definition from Answers.com

Resources

• You Tube - River Dance
• You Tube - Lord of the Dance - Cry of the Celts[Michael Flatley]