Feature: RIVERDANCE - THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY WORLD TOUR at Fox Theatre

What is RIVERDANCE? Well, most people think it is a type of dance form. However, that would be Irish dancing. RIVERDANCE is actually the name of a show that has been featuring Irish dancing for the last 20 years. In fact, the 20th Anniversary Tour for the company is underway and the cast is about hit the stage of the Fabulous Fox Theatre.

For the last two decades, RIVERDANCE has been delivering nothing short of a spectacular show that tours the world every single year. Why? I was lucky enough to chat with lead dancer Lauren Smyth about the iconic show and her history with the company.

A dancer from the age of 4, Lauren has been performing with the company since 2009. After auditioning for the company and earning a callback, the starlet earned a spot on tour as a troupe member. Currently, this is Lauren's fifth season filling one of the coveted lead dancer roles.

During our chat, I confessed to Lauren that I had never had the experience to see the show and wanted all the details. Just so you know a little bit more about the show, here is a dummy's guide to RIVERDANCE. [Note: these are not direct quotes from Lauren Smyth, just an overview of our conversation. PS: make sure to say hello to Lauren after the show. She has the world's best laugh!]

What is the show about? The first half is about Irish myths and legends while the second half focuses on Irish immigrants moving to America. A play by play overview can be found here.

What will the performance consist of? The show features mostly Irish dancing, with a couple of other cultures mixed in. Plus, tap dancers, live music, and vocals.

Does RIVERDANCE train dancers? In recent years, the company has opened up an international summer school with locations in Dublin and Boston. Talk about a resume boost!

What brings audiences back every year to see this unique spectacle? Lauren described it as something that will just always be there, as a one-off that people love worldwide, from America to China back to her homeland in Ireland. The show has something for everyone, and audiences cannot help but feel uplifted after the show.

When is the show playing at the Fabulous Fox Theatre? May 5 at 8 p.m., May 6 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and May 7 at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. That is five chances to have a better weekend with just the click of your mouse!

Is there cool merch to buy at the show? There's only one way to tell...

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