Riverdance 30: The New Generation brings its magic to New Theatre Oxford this September

This September, the iconic Riverdance will return to Oxford as part of a special 30th anniversary tour – Riverdance 30: The New Generation – promising a dazzling fusion of Irish and international dance and music that has enchanted audiences for three decades.

First performed as the interval act at the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, Riverdance became a global phenomenon almost overnight, capturing the hearts of millions and inspiring generations of Irish dancers worldwide.

The combination of Grammy Award-winning music, infectious energy, and mesmerising choreography has left audiences in awe ever since, firmly establishing Riverdance as one of the most celebrated productions in the history of the performing arts.

To mark its milestone year, the anniversary tour will visit 30 UK venues – one for each year of its remarkable history – between August and December 2025.

New Theatre Oxford, the region’s largest live entertainment venue, will host the production from Thursday, 11 September to Sunday, 14 September, with evening performances and weekend matinees. It’s a fitting location for such a prestigious show, given the theatre’s rich heritage and tradition of showcasing world-class talent.

This revitalised production breathes fresh life into the much-loved original, offering audiences an experience that feels both familiar and thrillingly new. It features innovative choreography, dazzling costumes, and state-of-the-art lighting, projection, and motion graphics that transport viewers into the heart of the performance.

For the first time, ‘The New Generation’ of performers – all of whom were not yet born when Riverdance began – will take to the stage. These artists are deeply conscious of the show’s legacy, taking immense pride in following in the footsteps of Irish dancing giants. Their passion and skill promise to take Riverdance to new audiences, with the anniversary celebrations continuing in the United States from January to June 2026.

Director John McColgan reflected on the show’s enduring appeal:

“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.”

Audiences in Oxford can expect an unforgettable performance that blends the traditional and the contemporary, showcasing the precision, artistry, and passion of the world-class dancers, musicians, and singers in the Riverdance ensemble.

Whether you’ve seen it before or are experiencing its magic for the first time, this anniversary production is a chance to witness a piece of cultural history in the making.

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