DCPA’s “Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show” is just plain fun | Theater review

The “Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show,” onstage at the Buell Theatre in Denver through June 4, is a fun performance that anyone can appreciate.

From the first note, the show is a celebration of itself — an ode to Irish culture and dance that has wowed crowds for more than two decades. Audience members witness the intensity and passion of the dancers and feel the energy of the crowd as it responds to the methodical tapping.

The show ebbs and flows between the high energy of the troupe at full power and the reverent nods to traditional Irish music and dance.

As someone who tap-danced for 15 years, I loved seeing all the little kids in the audience who talked about their favorite numbers at intermission. There’s something about that repetitive stomping that both energizes and soothes me. You can’t focus on anything but those stomping feet.

The highlights:

• The energy in the room exploded when the full troupe was on stage, dancing in perfect synchronization.
• The “Thunderstorm” dance from Act I was a strong showing from the male dancers, building in intensity just like the storms that Denverites are so familiar with.
• “Shivna” in Act I was a hauntingly beautiful duet that felt like watching a witchy ritual.
• Mark Alfred, the musical director and percussionist, was fun to watch in every part of the show, from the fairie-like chimes to the booming drum beats.
• “Trading Taps” in Act II is the comedic relief of the show. A battle between Irish dancers and jazz tappers that was a nod to how tapping has changed throughout the years.

Two of the dancers got their start in Denver: Principal dancer Matthew Gardiner and his brother and troupe member, Michael Gardiner, grew up dancing in Denver before moving to Galway, Ireland. Check out their Instagram to see these brothers dance their way around the world while touring with “Riverdance.”  (Their latest post includes a shoutout to the Denver Nuggets in the NBA Finals.)