Riverdance’s New Generation 30th anniversary tour is in no danger of being just some tired nostalgia act that rests on its laurels.

The show that ran briefly over Easter weekend at TPAC’s Jackson Hall was a feast of energy, choreography and performance.

For those like the cast who were too young to remember when Riverdance became a cultural phenomenon in the mid-90s, the theatrical show consisted mainly of traditional Irish music and dance.

The Grammy awardwinning music and the infectious energy of its mesmerizing choreography and breathtaking performances has left audiences in awe and established Riverdance as a global cultural sensation.

To celebrate its 30th year, Riverdance brought that magic to a world tour. This spectacular production rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography and costumes and stateof- the-art lighting, projection and motion graphics with a New Generation of performers, all of whom were not born when show began 30 years ago.

Director of Riverdance John McColgan said in a press release “It is both a privilege and a delight to celebrate 30 years of Riverdance and the unique journey it has taken us on. In those 30 years the show has transformed from a spectacle into a global cultural phenomenon – continuously evolving yet remaining true to its Irish roots. On this upcoming tour we look forward to welcoming ‘The New Generation’ of artists while paying tribute to the talented performers, creators, dedicated crew, and the millions of fans who have made Riverdance a worldwide celebration of music and dance.”

Particular aweinspiring is the “Macedonian Morning / The Dervish Scene 13” this time reimagined with choreography by The Dervish: Moscow Folk Ballet Company and restaged by Svetlana Malinina with two couples and some partner work that is world class across any dance genre.

“Trading Taps,” while no less amazing, brought levity with a dance-off between two traditional tap dancers and a street gang of Irish Dancers. Tapper Kenji Igus has shared the stage with such tap notables as: Gregory Hines while his partner Dharmesh Patel has performed and assisted with choreography for Cirque Du Soleil and in London West End’s Opening run of “Bodyguard the Musical.”

The “Firedance,” offers the power and passion of the flamingo dance set to a score that’s bold and brilliant.

Riverdance was more than dance; it’s also music, featuring live percussion, violin and saxophone performances that range from classical modern to folky, bluegrass-style beats.

Poetic narration ties each of the scenes throughout the show. At times enigmatic and often poignant, the lyrics are always evocative and set the mood for the upcoming dance.

Riverdance may be turning 30 this year, but it is not by any means tired. The 2026 tour travels five countries with a few remaining shows offered throughout the summer in the South. No dates remain, however, in Tennessee.