RIVERDANCE IS A FAMILY BUSINESS FOR CIAN PORTER
STORY BY Keith Loria
For Cian Porter, performing in Riverdance isn’t just his job, but a continuation of his family’s legacy, one that has unfolded across continents, generations and right at home in Atlanta.
“I kind of was born into Riverdance, essentially,” Porter said, explaining that his parents met while touring with the show in the late 1990s.
His father, Scott Porter, was a lead dancer, and his mother, Lisa Kelly, was one of Riverdance’s iconic vocalists.
“I ended up going on the road with them as a child on tour with Riverdance, sleeping in little pullouts in the dresser and the wardrobes and the cast taking care of me,” he said.
Though his mother left the show shortly after his birth and his father
The cast of Riverdance 30–The New Generation.
remained until 2006, Riverdance never truly faded from the family’s world, even though Porter didn’t start dancing until he was older.
Porter spent his earliest years in Ireland, but a move to Peachtree City, Ga. in 2011 would change everything.
ATLANTA BECAME HIS FOUNDATION
“It was funny enough that I started dancing when I moved to Atlanta, not when I was living in Ireland, so it wasn’t until age 12,” he said. “That’s usually quite late for people. I was not one of those kids who had been dancing since 3.”
Atlanta became the foundation for his development, both personally and artistically.
“I went to McIntosh High School like a super normal teenager,” Porter said. “I drove the golf cart to school. However, I had a different outside-of-school life where I was traveling to Ireland or England or Australia for competitions.”
Training under his father, who has remained his teacher from day one, made dance a family affair.
“Quite literally, my dad’s always been there for me as a teacher,” Porter said. “If you’re going to dance, he said, ‘I should be involved.’”
Despite his pedigree, Riverdance was not always the end goal and Porter didn’t think that’s where he would wind up.
“When you’re competing, it’s all about beating the person next to you,” he said. “I never really thought Riverdance was in reach at that time.”
WHEN IT ALL CHANGED
That changed during the pandemic and he decided to send in an audition tape to see what would happen.
“In 2021, I was invited to join Riverdance in Dubai, becoming part of the first generation of performers whose parents had once danced in the show,” he said. “Myself and two others in 2021 were the first-ever Riverdance babies to perform. It was very cool to have that full-circle moment.”
That sense of continuity defines Porter’s place in Riverdance 30—The New Generation, and he’s thrilled he gets to dance in the show in Atlanta.
“It’s amazing how the show has continuously evolved while staying true to its Irish roots,” he said. “There’s such a respect on stage. We love what we’re doing, and I think the audience really feels that.”
The first time Porter really remembers seeing Riverdance was at the Fox Theatre in 2017, and he can’t wait to take to the stage for the February performances.
“That was kind of my reintroduction to the idea of a professional show,” he said. “I did not picture myself nine years later being the one on there. It’s one of the most gorgeous theatres in the world. It’s very special that I get to dance on that floor and have family and friends come see the show.”
Cian Porter
A BRIDGE TO THE FUTURE
This anniversary tour adds another milestone for his family as Porter will share the stage with his brother, Jack, for the first time ever.
“That’s huge for me,” he said. “That’s kind of a bucket-list item I’ve wanted my whole life.”
But his brother won’t be the only one that’s close to him. Porter will be touring alongside his partner, Faith Moore, which he noted only deepens the experience.
“I was lucky enough to meet my partner through this tour,” he said. “Getting to tour with her is massive for me.”
More than anything, Porter said Riverdance remains defined by its sense of family.
“Ninety-five percent of the people who were on the road with my parents will still tell me they minded me as a baby,” he said. “Our director jokes that he changed my nappies. It’s very full circle.”
At just 23, Porter stands as bridge between Riverdance’s past and its future and looks forward to what’s to come.
The cast of Riverdance 30–The New Generation.
ABHANN PRODUCTIONS
Presents
RIVERDANCE 30 – THE NEW GENERATION
Starring Principal Dancers:
KIERAN BRYANT, WILL BRYANT, OLIVIA NACHITGAL, MAIREAD TRAINOR
THE RIVERDANCE IRISH DANCE TROUPE, MUSICIANS AND SINGERS AND FEATURED INTERNATIONAL SOLOISTS.
Costume Designer JOAN BERGIN
For HIGH RES
Lead Designer PETER CANNING
Lighting Designer ANDREW VOLLER
Poetry Written by THEO DORGAN
Press Representative POLK & CO.
Sound Designer MICHAEL O’GORMAN
Set Designer ALAN FARQUHARSON
Motion Graphics COSMO AV
Orchestrations by NICK INGMAN and BILL WHELAN
Composer BILL WHELAN
Producer MOYA DOHERTY
Director JOHN McCOLGAN
Executive Producer/Associate Director PADRAIC MOYLES
CAST
THE RIVERDANCE IRISH DANCE TROUPE
PRINCIPALS
Kieran Bryant, Will Bryant, Olivia Nachtigal, Mairead Trainor
TROUPE
Lucy Cregoe, Brian Culligan, Brianna Doran, Aiden Dwyer, Francis Fallon, Sam Felling, Joe Harrison, Aidan Hurff, Ronan Kelly, Lara Magee, Daniel McCormick, Emily McFadden, Faith Moore, Ella Morley, Kellie Morris, Jack Porter, Cian Porter, Tara Rochester, Dylan Schloss, Noel Spillane, Abbie Walshe, Elyse Watson
THE RIVERDANCE BAND
Drums/Percussion/Bodhrán/Musical Director—GUY RICKARBY
Uilleann Pipes/Low Whistle—CATHAL CROKE Fiddle—HALEY RICHARDSON Saxophone—EMMA MCPHILEMY
THE RIVERDANCE SINGERS AND DRUMMERS
Members of the Company
THE RIVERDANCE FLAMENCO SOLOIST
Rocio Dusmet Orellana
THE RIVERDANCE DERVISH FOLK DANCE TROUPE
Victor Durbala, Christine Lesnikova, Elena Macovei, Illia Pozdnyakov
THE RIVERDANCE TAPPERS
Dharmesh Patel, Kenard Williams
POETRY NARRATED BY John Kavanagh
ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL IRISH DANCE CHOREOGRAPHY BY Michael Flatley
ORIGINAL CHOREOGRAPHY BY Mavis Ascott, Jean Butler, John Carey, Brendan De Gallai, Colin Dunne, Carol Leavy Joyce, Eileen Martin, Paula Nic Cionnath, Maria Pages, Tarik Winston
PROGRAM
ACT I
REEL AROUND THE SUN
The Riverdance Male Irish Dance Principal & Troupe
Original Choreography: Michael Flatley
THE HEART’S CRY
The Riverdance Singers
THE COUNTESS CATHLEEN
The Riverdance Female Irish Dance Principal, Troupe and Folk Dance Troupe
Original Choreography: Jean Butler, Moscow Folk Ballet Company
CAOINEADH CHÚ CHULAINN (LAMENT)
The Riverdance Irish Piper
THUNDERSTORM
The Riverdance Male Irish Dance Principal & Troupe
Original Choreography: Michael Flatley
FIREDANCE
Flamenco Soloist and the Riverdance
Male Irish Dance Troupe
Original Choreography: Maria Pagés, Colin Dunne
SHIVNA
The Folk Dance Troupe and the Riverdance Singers
Original Choreography: Moscow Folk Ballet Company restaged by Svetlana Malinina
SLIP INTO SPRING - THE HARVEST
The Riverdance Musicians
RIVERDANCE
The Riverdance Irish Dance Principals, Troupe, Singers & Drummers
Original Choreography: Mavis Ascott, Michael Flatley (Irish Dance Step Choreography), Jean Butler (Female Solo Choreography)
ACT II
AMERICAN WAKE
The Irish Dance Troupe
Original Choreography: Michael Flatley, Paula Nic Cionnath (Set Dance Consultant)
LIFT THE WINGS
The Riverdance Singers
TRADING TAPS
The Riverdance Male Irish Dance Principal & Male Troupe and the American Tappers
Original Choreography: Colin Dunne, Tarik Winston
MACEDONIAN MORNING /THE DERVISH
The Riverdance Musicians & the Folk Dance Troupe
Original Choreography Dervish: Moscow Folk Ballet Company restaged by Svetlana Malinina
RITMOS DEL CORAZON/ANDALUCÍA
The Flamenco Soloist, the Riverdance Male Irish Dance Principal, the Riverdance Drummer
Original Choreography: Colin Dunne, Maria Pagés
ANNA LIVIA
The Riverdance Female Irish Dance Principal & Troupe
Original choreography: John Carey. Additional text adapted from James Joyce’s Finnegans Wake by Bill Whelan
SLOW AIR & TUNES
The Riverdance Musicians & the Flamenco Soloist.
HOME AND THE HEARTLAND/ HEARTLAND
The Riverdance Irish Dance Principals and Troupe and the Riverdance Singers
Original Choreography: Michael Flatley, Colin Dunne, Jean Butler
FINALE
The Company
Story by Bill Whelan, Moya Doherty and John McColgan. Music and Lyrics by Bill Whelan. Original Principal Irish Dance Choreography: Michael Flatley
At certain performances, alternative principal performers will dance the principal roles. Cast and content may be subject to change without prior notice.
Life at the lake.
The lake is calling. From sun-filled days to peaceful nights, the getaway you’re dreaming of can be found only 87 miles from the Fox Theatre.
Where time drifts by.
WHO’S WHO in the CAST/BAND
THE RIVERDANCE IRISH DANCE
TROUPE The Riverdance Irish Dance Troupe are world-class Irish dancers. They hail mostly from Ireland, Northern Ireland, Great Britain, the United States,Canada and Australia. Between them the dancers can boast of hundreds of championships won in Ireland and abroad. Most started dancing at a young age at local dance schools and progressed to world championship level before being chosen to perform in Riverdance. The dancers would have known and competed against each other at various competitions, including the World Championships. Riverdance has given them the opportunity to perform together in a noncompetitive way. The grace and eloquence of their soft-shoe dance and the power and precision of their hard-shoe routines clearly display the endless hours of practice and their dedication to the art of Irish Dance.
THE RIVERDANCE PRINCIPAL DANCERS
FEMALE LEAD DANCERS
OLIVIA NACHTIGAL Olivia, from Western Canada, began dancing at the age of 4 years old. She danced competitively for the Mattierin School of Irish dance in Edmonton and won many competitive titles, including placing top five at the World championships. She attended the Riverdance Summer School in Dublin in 2019 and her dream came true when she was asked to join the 25th Anniversary Show in 2020. She has since toured North America, Europe, UK, and China, as well as countless other countries. She is incredibly grateful to Riverdance and is looking forward to continuing her journey in the show.
MAIREAD TRAINOR Mairead, from London, began dancing at the age of two for the Trainor School of Irish Dance, run by her mother, aunt and cousin. Throughout her competitive career she won all major titles including the World Championships in 2019. She is a qualified personal trainer and has a passion for helping and training dancers. Mairead joined Riverdance in 2018 through their summer school programme and has since toured worldwide including the UK, Ireland, Germany, Netherlands, North America,
Australia, Dubai, China & Japan. Mairead made her debut as principal dancer with Riverdance in 2022 at the Wang Theatre in Boston—another dream of hers come true! In 2025, Mairead became a Dance Captain which was a true honour and accomplishment. Mairead would like to thank her teachers, family and friends for helping her get to where she is today and fulfilling her dream of performing in Riverdance
MALE LEAD DANCERS
KIERAN BRYANT Born and raised in Sydney Australia, Kieran’s dancing career began at the age of four. He studied Irish, classical ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap and musical theatre. Travelling extensively around the world to compete, Kieran won various titles at a state, national and international levels alongside his brother and sister. Kieran is also an accomplished musician and actor. He has appeared in films, television and on stage performing lead roles in musical theatre productions. After attending the Riverdance Summer School in 2016 and touring worldwide with the company, Kieran made his lead debut in the summer of 2022. In 2024, Kieran fulfilled his lifelong dream, performing lead in front of family and friends in his hometown Sydney. He looks forward to continuing to share his passion for music and dance with audiences across the globe.
WILL BRYANT Will is an accomplished stage, film and commercial dance artist. Having trained in various styles of dance including ballet, contemporary, jazz, musical theatre and tap, Will felt a deep connection with the culture, musicality, and precision of Irish dance. Born in Australia, he grew up travelling the globe competing in Irish dance, winning state and national titles. Will has performed alongside notable figures including The Wiggles, and appeared on the ABC TV hit “Dance Academy,” as well as various films. Will toured with Celtic Illusion and Heartbeat of Home prior to joining Riverdance in 2013. He subsequently landed the
THE RIVERDANCE BAND
GUY RICKARBY (Drums, Percussion, Bodhrán and Musical Director). Guy Rickarby has performed and recorded with Van Morrison, Roger Daltrey, The Devlins, Juliet Turner and Eleanor McEvoy. Since debuting with Riverdance
in 2007, he has toured with the show over six continents and is featured in the DVD Riverdance–Live in Beijing. He has been a member of the house bands for many TV music series including “The Voice (Of Ireland),” “Fame the Musical,” “You’re A Star,” “The Irish Tenors and Friends” and the 2016 RTE show “Centenary.” He often works with the RTE Concert Orchestra and with them he has performed with Kurt Elling, Jon Lord (of Deep Purple), Sharon Corr, Imelda May, Vince Mendoza and many others. Guy has also worked with the RTE NSO, the Ulster Orchestra, Sharon Shannon, Duke Special, Gavin Friday, Brian Kennedy, The Chieftains and Celtic Woman.
CATHAL CROKE (Uilleann Pipes and Whistles). Dublin born - uilleann piper Cathal Croke, a Senior All Ireland Champion and Honours Graduate in Music from the University of Limerick, has performed at festivals and toured with productions in numerous countries spanning five continents. He has played for two Presidents of Ireland, was recorded by RTÉ, has shared the stage with Ralph McTell and was recorded in the Hollywood production There You’ll Find Me, starring actors Vanessa Redgrave and Patrick Bergin, music scored by Timothy Williams. Touring with Heartbeat of Home from 2018, Cathal has performed in the London Palladium and later in 2019 in the West End run in the Piccadilly Theatre. London Theatre Direct: Special mention to Cathal Croke for a particularly haunting solo on the uilleann pipes.” More recently, he was appointed as the Musical Director of a new Irish music and dance show. He debuted with Riverdance in the Gaiety Theatre Dublin in 2019 and has toured internationally with the show.
EMMA MCPHILEMY (Saxophone).
Emma McPhilemy is a touring saxophonist known for her distinctive, versatile sound. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of musical styles, she performs across an exceptionally diverse set of genres. She is endorsed by Selmer Paris and Vandoren UK. As an educator, Emma has appeared as a guest at the Palmela International Saxophone Festival and has led masterclasses for postgraduate and undergraduate students at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and
Dance, the Royal Northern College of Music, and other established UK institutions. She has also delivered classes at Berklee (USA) and the University of British Columbia (Canada). Emma was recently the Associate Saxophone Examiner at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, where she was also a visiting tutor. Recent performance highlights include her debut concerto appearance with the BBC Philharmonic, international touring as Musical Director and saxophone soloist in Bill Whelan’s Riverdance, an Australian tour with her latest album repertoire, and debut concerto performances in Portugal and Italy. Upcoming projects include a concerto recording for the internationally renowned label Chandos Records, featuring a new work by UK composer Andy Scott. She will also return to the USA for further touring and teaching engagements.
HALEY RICHARDSON (Fiddle). Haley Richardson is a virtuosic musician who has garnered many prestigious awards,including multiple championships at the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann (All Ireland Championships), numerous Mid-Atlantic Championships, and the coveted Fiddler of Dooney awards (2015 and 2018). She brings a rare dynamism and energy to her music, informed by thorough knowledge of the form, mastery of her instrument, and trailblazing, showstopping technique and emotion evident in every note. Haley’s most recent album, When the Wind Blows High and Clear, with Quinn Bachand, was nominated for 2020 Ensemble of the Year by the Canadian Folk Music Awards. Haley appeared in the cinema release of Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show at the 3Arena, Dublin, and was invited by Bill Whelan, to record on the Riverdance 25th Anniversary Album www.HaleyRichardsonMusic.com @haleyrichardson.music
THE RIVERDANCE DERVISH
ENSEMBLE The Riverdance Folk Dance Ensemble combines elegance and grace with verve, dynamism and joyous physicality. The company’s dancers come from a diverse mix of cultural backgrounds and from many different countries throughout Eastern Europe. What they have in common is a dedication to dance and many years of
training and performance in pursuit of perfection in their chosen art. Working as individual performers, they have come together for Riverdance, where they will share their individual talents and fuse the many elements that have gone into the development of their own unique style of dance.
THE RIVERDANCE FLAMENCO SOLOIST
ROCIO DUSMET ORELLANA Born in Madrid, Spain, Rocio began her professional career when she was eight years old. She graduated from the Royal Professional Conservatory of Dance Mariemma in the specialty of Spanish Dance in Madrid. In 2012, Rocio was awarded the Spanish Dance Prize at the XVI National Call for Dance City of Castellón. Rocio has toured France, China, Mexico, Colombia, Italy, Russia, Latvia and the United Arab Emirates as a dancer in the companies of Aida Gómez, Ibérica de Danza, Ballet Carmen Mota, Compañía Jesús Lozano, Inc. Ángel Manarre , and soloist dancer at the Festival d’Avignon. Her most recent work as a dancer and actress includes the musicals Dirty Dancing, Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival and the Circus of Horrors.
THE RIVERDANCE TAPPERS
DHARMESH PATEL Dharmesh started dancing at the age of seven and graduated from Bird College of Performing Arts in London 2007. He has danced and assisted with choreography in various shows all over the world. He is disciplined in many forms of dance ranging from Classical to Hip/ Hop working in various operas at the English National Opera and The Royal Opera House. He’s also a member of Plague, World Hip Hop International Champions 2005 and 2011 in Las Vegas. He currently still dances hip hop, contemporary, popping and locking at corporate events and TV Shows including “Strictly Come Dancing” on BBC1 and Sky 1’s “Got to Dance” as a live semi-finalist. He has performed and assisted with choreography for Cirque Du Soleil and in London West End’s opening run of The Bodyguard: The Musical. Recent performances include playing the Male Lead in Tap Factory. Dharmesh has performed The American Tap Dancer role in Riverdance for the 20th, 25th and now the 30th Anniversary tours.
KENARD WILLIAMS Kenard Williams from Henderson, North Carolina, USA, has danced all dance styles since the age of five. He joined the North Carolina Tap Ensemble (NCYTE) at the age of 10 and danced with them until his senior year of high school. He was an American Tap Company member in 2018-2019, attending the 2018 World Tap Championships as a part of Team USA. After his time with ATC, he went to college at East Carolina University graduating with honors with a BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography. He studied in Africa as part of his degree to teach dance. After college he moved to Boston, MA. Since 2022, Kenard has become an American Tap Company coach and a guest choreographer at Nancy Chippendale’s Dance Studios. Kenard has toured with Riverdance on the 2023 European Tour, 2024 China Tour and the 2025 UK tour.
BILL WHELAN (Composer). Bill Whelan has composed music for theatre, film and orchestra. His 1997 Grammy Awardwinning music Riverdance continues to be performed around the world. To coincide with the 25th anniversary tour, Bill completed a new studio recording of the music from Riverdance, released by Decca/Universal Records, featuring many of the young musicians who play the music live with the show. He also composed a new score for the feature film, Riverdance: The Animated Adventure. His orchestral works include: The Seville Suite, Spirit Of Mayo, The Connemara Suite and Linen & Lace His musical settings of the literary works of Irish writers include the poetry of WB Yeats, Paul Muldoon, Derek Mahon, Tom McIntyre, Frank McGuinness and Paul Durcan. His music for film includes scores for Dancing at Lughansa starring Meryl Streep, Some Mother’s Son featuring Helen Mirren and Lamb with Liam Neeson. As a producer in the studio, he has worked with U2, Van Morrison, Kate Bush, Richard Harris, The Dubliners, Planxty, Andy Irvine, Davy Spillane and Bulgarian/Irish band, East Wind. In 2022, his memoir The Road to Riverdance was published, described by Gabriel Byrne as “a fascinating and revealing book about the man and his music.” Bill continues his compositional work, recently completing Stolen Hearts, a work for
traditional musicians and symphony orchestra performed by the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland at the National Concert Hall in 2024. Bill is a Fellow of the Royal College of Music and holds two honorary doctorates. He is an Honorary Freeman of the City of Limerick, where he was born.
MOYA DOHERTY (Producer). Moya Doherty’s career encompasses the creative industries, theatre, radio and television production and presentation, both in Ireland and internationally. She fronted a number of arts, features and documentary programmes for Public Service Media. As Executive Producer, Moya developed a number of charity Telethons, the Eurovision Song Contest and the televising of the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics held in Ireland in 2003. Moya was the Commissioning Producer for Riverdance which premiered at the Eurovision Song Contest of 1994. Moya has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, including the Veuve Clicquot Business Woman of the Year, the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award and Honorary Doctorates from the University of Ulster, University College Dublin and from the National University of Ireland in recognition of her ongoing commitment and philanthropic contribution to the arts in Ireland.
JOHN MCCOLGAN (Director). John McColgan is a multi-award-winning producer and director. He was Head of Entertainment (RTÉ Television), Head of Weekend Entertainment (ITV/TVAM) and was awarded a Jacob’s Television Award (1980). He played a key role in the evolution of Riverdance from the original sevenminute dance number to the full stage show. He is founding director of Tyrone Productions whose productions include: Quirke (BBC), Beckett on Film (C4), The Hunger (RTE/ARTE), David Brophy’s Choir Series (RTE) and Born to Riverdance (BBC). John served as Chairman of the Abbey Theatre Centenary Committee and directed a critically acclaimed production of Dion Boucicault’s melodrama The Shaughraun. He produced a major theatrical event marking the State Visit of Queen Elizabeth II to Ireland (2011). John is the director of Heartbeat of Home which premiered in Dublin (2013), toured in North America and China and played in London’s West End
(2019). He holds an Honorary Doctorate of Law from the National University of Ireland. John is an accomplished photographer and is an Ambassador for Trócaire, one of Ireland’s largest development agencies. His recent work includes the documentary This is Palestine and a book of his photography Looking at the Same Moon
PADRAIC MOYLES (Executive Producer/Associate Director). Born in Dublin, Ireland, Padraic emigrated to New York when he was nine years old. At the age of 12, he starred as the principal actor in the Off-Broadway production of Grandchild of Kings, directed by Harold Prince. Dancing under the tutelage of Donny Golden, he joined Riverdance in 1997, going on to become Dance Captain and Principal Dancer. He was nominated for an Ovation Award for his leading role in the show. In 2006, he joined the Broadway production of The Pirate Queen as Dance Captain before returning to Riverdance in 2008. He has had the privilege to perform for heads of state and notable individuals from around the world, including Michelle Obama and Queen Elizabeth II. Padraic is also proud to be the Executive Producer/Director for the international show Heartbeat of Home which has toured China, North America and played in London’s West End. He was Dance Director and a choreographer on Riverdance: The Animated Adventure Padraic would like to give special thanks to his wife Niamh, his children JulietteMay and Harrison Rhys, his father, brothers and sister for their continued support. He dedicates all his work to his late mother Christine Moyles.
CHRIS BATSTONE AND JOEL
BRANDWINE
(Production Management). Chris and Joel have been with Riverdance for five years, since the re-imagining of the tour on the 25th Anniversary. Primarily overseeing the Riverdance North American Tour, Chris and Joel have worked on many shows, including King Kong (Broadway), Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Tour), Jersey Boys, Legally Blonde, The Karate Kid Musical and Queen of Versailles. When not working with Riverdance, Joel is the Assistant Professor of Technical Production at Boston University.
NORTH AMERICAN TOUR STAFF
North American Press Representative ......................... Polk and Co.
North America Marketing
Jennifer Gallagher, Allied Global Marketing
Production Management ............. Chris Batstone and Joel Brandwine
Company Manager
Associate Company Manager
Production Stage Manager
Technical Stage Manager
Jeffrey Mensch
Shawn Passero
Aaron Kennedy
Michael Griffin
Irish Dance Captain Mairead Trainor
Dervish Dance Captain Christine Lesnikova
Head Carpenter
Derek Johnson
Production Electrician .............................................. Dominic White
Head Electrician/Relighter
Assistant Electrician/Video Tech
Assistant Electrician
Advance Electrician
Production Sound
Head Sound/Monitors
Assistant Sound/FOH Mixer
Rose Nuchims
Katie Twomey
Mary Anderson
Charlie Hickey
Kevin McGing
Isaac Sheppard
Justin McIntyre
Wardrobe Supervisor ............................................ Kristen O'Maley
Wardrobe Assistant Maerius Jean Porter
Physical Therapy/Massage Therapy NEURO TOUR, Physical Therapy, Inc.
Merchandising MAX MERCHANDISING LLC
International Representation
Second Symphony Ltd
North American Representation WME Entertainment LLC
FOR ABHANN PRODUCTIONS LIMITED
Directors Moya Doherty, John McColgan, David Orr
RIVERDANCE DUBLIN PRODUCTION OFFICE
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Padraic Moyles
General Manager Sean O’Brien
Marketing Manager ..................................... Mary Keatley O’Donnell
Marketing Executive Jason O’Neill
Costume Shop Supervisor
Finance Director
Financial Accountant
CREDITS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Associate Costume Designers and Stylists
Monica Ennis
Ciaran Evans
Michelle Fox
Monica Ennis, Niamh O’Connor
Transport Sponsorship Aer Lingus www.aerlingus.com
Dance Flooring and Covering .......... American Harlequin Corporation
Soft Goods iWeiss Theatrical Solutions
Lighting, Video, LED Screen PRG
Sound Equipment CLAIR Global
Handheld Radios Protocol Telecommunications Inc
Trucking Provided by HenX USA LLC
Tour Buses by Timi’s Tours Transportation
Housing by Road Concierge
Drums provided by ............................................................. PEARL
Cymbals provided by Zildjian
Drumheads provided by Evans
Drumsticks provided by ........................................................ Vater
Protection provided by Racket Cases
US Immigration Counsel
Barst Mukamal & Kleiner LLP
Flamenco Consultant Yolanda Gonzalez Sobrado
Photography Deidre Buck, Barbara Corsico, Ewa Figaszewska, Hugo Glendenning, Jack Hartin, Tom Lawlor, Joan Marcus, Rob McDougall, Alan Rennie, Wouter Vellekoop
POETRY AND MUSIC
Riverdance Poetry
Theo Dorgan Spoken by John Kavanagh Music orchestrations by Nick Ingram and Bill Whelan Riverdance soundtrack recorded by Brian Whelan, Brian Masterson and Andrew Boland Riverdance soundtrack mixed by Brian Masterson
THE PRODUCER WOULD LIKE TO GIVE SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT TO: RTÉ Commercial Enterprises Limited; Paul McGuinness - Principle Management, Liam Miller, Maurice Cassidy, Tommy Higgins; The Office of Public Works; The National Gallery of Ireland; Elements of
the Ardagh Chalice and other artefacts by kind permission of the director of The National Museum of Ireland.
PREVIOUS CREDITS
Senior Executive Producer Julian Erskine (1995-2020)
Set Design ........................................ Mary Morrow, Robert Ballagh
Lighting Design Andrew Leonard, Rupert Murray
Lighting Design Benjamin Pearcy, John Comiskey
Costumes for Riverdance Eurovision 1994 Margaret Crosse
Costumes for Riverdance – The Show Jen Kelly
Projection Dick Straker, Chris Slingsby
Projection Animation Benjamin Pearcy
STAY IN TOUCH WITH RIVERDANCE
www.riverdance.com YouTube.com @riverdance Instagram @riverdance Facebook @riverdance TikTok @riverdance RIVERDANCE SUMMER SCHOOL academy.riverdance.com
The Musicians employed in this production are members of the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada.
Backstage Employees are represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (or I.A.T.S.E.).
ATPAM, The Press Agents employed in this production are represented by the Association of Theatrical Press Agents & Managers.
22 | encore etiquette
1. Please arrive early. Latecomers may not be seated until intermission.
2 Take care of personal needs (water, restroom use) before the performance begins.
3 Please silence or turn off all electronic devices, including cellphones, beepers and watch alarms. We encourage you to share your experience via social media but please refrain from doing so or texting during performances. The glow from your device is distracting.
4 Most shows do not allow photography of any kind. Flash photography inside the theater is never allowed. It distracts those around you and endangers the performers.
5 The overture is part of the performance. Please cease talking at this point.
6. Dear lovebirds, when you lean your heads together, you block the view of those behind you. Please consider those seated behind you when choosing whether to wear a hat or what hairstyle you choose.
7 Please refrain from talking, humming or singing along with the show, except when encouraged to do so by the artists or show.
8 Please wait for an appropriate moment to dig something out of your pocket or bag.
9. Go easy with the perfume and cologne, many people are highly allergic.
10 If you need assistance during the show, please go to your nearest volunteer usher. If additional assistance is needed, the usher will get the appropriate person to further help you
To review our full Guest Code of Conduct, please scan here:
“Mighty Mo”
The Fox Theatre organ, affectionately called “Mighty Mo” is performed by Ken Double. To learn more about the Fox’s historic organ, reserve a Mighty Mo Organ tour at foxtheatre.org/tours.
THE FOX THEATRE
660 Peachtree Street, N.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30308
404.881.2100 • www.foxtheatre.org
STAFF
Allan C. Vella President & C.E.O.
William Renshaw Vice President & C.F.O.
Jamie Vosmeier VP of Sales and Marketing
Rachel Bomeli . . . .
. VP of Facility Operations
Lucy Lawler-Freas Director of Programming
Shelly Kleppsattel Booking & Contract Manager
Faustina Brooks Director of Finance
Aly Grubb Director of Sales & Marketing
Ben Dostal Director of Ticketing & Analytics
Leigh Burns Director of Community Partnerships
April Sutton Director of Human Resources
Scott Christopher Sr. Dir of Facility Operations
Nick Vecchio Sr. Dir. of Hospitality & Merch
Steve Moore Director of Special Events
Lisa Marie Malovoz Director of Production
Gary Hardaway Head Carpenter
Scott Hardin Head Props/Projectionist
Rodney Amos Head Audio
Antonio Tiggs Head Flyman
Wendy Derrick Asst. House
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Robyn Barkin Chair
Scott Taylor Chair Elect
Mark C. Adams, Latanza Adjei, Renee Dye, Ryan Halpern, Larry Hanson, Doug Hooker, David Hutchison, Dr. Richard Kannwischer, Barbara King, Lauren Koontz, Sonjui Kumar, Celena Matlock, Jay Myers, Glen Romm, Ivan Shammas, Howard Smith, Ryan Wilson
EMERITUS MEMBERS
Tony Aeck, Clara Axam, John Busby Jr., Beauchamp Carr, Rodney Cook, Ada Lee Correll, Richard Courts, Keith O. Cowan, Jere Drummond, Richard Flinn, Julia Grumbles, Sheffield Hale, John Holder, Walt Huntley, Edward Hutchison, Craig Jones, Steve Koonin, Charles Lawson, Starr Moore, Joseph Myers, Edgar Neiss, Carl Patton, Sylvia Russell, Nancy Simms, Preston Stevens Jr., Clyde Tuggle, Edward L. White, Carolyn Wills
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THE THEATER
A fully restored 1929 “movie palace,” the Fox Theatre, with 4,665 seats, is a multipurpose facility, housing Broadway shows, ballets, comedies, concerts, movies and private corporate events.
PRIVATE EVENTS
The Fox Theatre has three private rental spaces, accommodating 25 to 1,200 guests. Our Egyptian Ballroom and Grand Salon are beautifully decorated and can be set up to your specifications. The Landmarks Lounge is adjacent to the lobby and is perfect for a small pre-show and intermission event. To book your “Fabulous Fox” evening, please call 404-881-2057 or send an email to affairsatthefox@affairs.com
TICKET OFFICE HOURS
Ticket Office hours are Friday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM and Saturday 10:00 AM-3:00 PM. The ticket office will open approximately 3 hours before doors on show days. Doors to the Fox Theatre open one hour before showtime. Tickets for all performances may be purchased online at www.foxtheatre.org, or by calling 855-285-8499, or visiting the Fox Theatre Ticket Office during the times listed above.
GROUP SALES
The Fox Theatre Group Sales Department offers discounts to groups for most Broadway shows. It is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call 404-881-2000 or email sales@foxtheatre.org
CONCESSIONS
Concession stands are located in the Spanish Room, main lobby and on the mezzanine lobby level.
RESTROOMS
Restrooms are located off the main lobby (downstairs), mezzanine lobby levels and the Gallery level. Accessible restroom facilities are in the Spanish Room; accessible/ Family restrooms are located through the office door in the main lobby.
TOURS
Tour schedules vary – please visit the Fox Theatre website for updated information regarding tour dates at www.foxtheatre.org
LOST AND FOUND
Lost and found items are turned in to the event staff’s office. To check on lost items, please call 404-881-2119 Lost and found items will be retained for 30 days.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
In the event of an emergency, and for your safety, please follow the directions provided by the Fox Theatre staff.
SMOKING
In accordance with the Fulton County Clean Air Ordinance, the Fox Theatre is a smoke-free facility. Smoking is only permitted in designated areas.
ABOUT ACCESSIBILITY
The Fox Theatre strives to make events accessible to all guests. If you need assistance during your visit please ask for one of our Event Staff members. The Fox Theatre offers the use of wheelchairs, listening devices and booster seats at no additional charge. Our ambassadors will assist you to special restroom accommodations. Note: Steep steps lead to all seats on the upper levels. For assistance or more information, please call the Event Staff’s office at: 404-881-2100
ACCESSIBLE TICKETS
To purchase accessible seating at the Fox Theatre please call 404-881-2016 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. MondayFriday or 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. A Ticket Office associate will be happy to help you. Ticket buyers may also visit the ticketing site at www.foxtheatre.org.
ELEVATORS
Elevators are at the north end of each lobby and are available during all performances. They make it possible to access each lobby without using the stairs. Patrons should be aware that access to upper seating areas do involve stairs.
PARKING
Parking is available within a four-block radius in all directions of the Fox Theatre. Advanced reserved parking is available for sale at the Fox Ticket Office or by calling 855-285-8499. The Fox Theatre assumes no responsibility for vehicles parked in any of the privately owned lots operating in the Fox Theatre district.
PERFORMANCE NOTES
All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket to be admitted to the theater. Not all events are suitable for children. Infants will not be admitted to adult programs/ performances. Parents will be asked to remove children who create a disturbance.
• Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of management in conjunction with the wishes of the producers.
• Please turn off all pagers and cellphones before each performance.
• Camera and recording devices are strictly prohibited. Backstage employees are represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E.)
MARQUEE CLUB PRESENTED BY LEXUS
A stunning 10,000 square feet of exclusive space located on the northeast side of the theatre, the Marquee Club has access to the fabulous rooftop terrace overlooking the iconic Fox marquee and Peachtree Street. The Marquee Club is the perfect way to elevate your experience at the Fox. The club can be accessed through one of the annual membership options or on a per-event basis, as space allows. Entry to the club must accompany a ticket to the proceeding performance. For more information on club access, visit foxtheatre.org/MarqueeClub or call 404-881-2024
FRIENDS OF THE FOX
Members of the Fox Theatre’s Friends of the Fox program help support Fox Gives, the theater’s community partnerships arm.
The Fox Theatre’s legend lives on through their generosity, supporting the theater, the city of Atlanta and communities across Georgia. To learn more about the Friends of the Fox membership program, please visit www.foxtheatre.org/support-us, email membership@foxtheatre.org, or call 404.881.2023.
The Fox Theatre would like to thank the following Friends of the Fox who have given at the Legend ($10,000), Marquee ($5,000), Encore ($2,500) and Entourage ($1,000) levels:
Michael & Brad Colasso
Gary Martin Hays & Sheri Hays
Blake’s on the Park
Diana Blank
Wynne Breland
George E. Butler II
Michelle & Matt Chambless
Michael Crew
Ira & Talmer Curry, Jr.
Rachel & Chris Frishe
LEGEND
Robyn & Tom Barkin
Laura Braswell, DDS
Harold Brody & Donald Smith
Jeffrey Cooper
Joy & Ritchie Dickey
Cindy & Steve Ensor
Christine & Drew Fry
Josie Berry & David M. Green
Jill & John Holder
Tari & William King
MARQUEE
Ripple IT Tower Lights Charities
Drew Eckl & Farnham
Jill & Mitch Lowery
Brantley Manderson
Margaret Ann Ross
Carrie & Scott Taylor
Andrea & Andy Wightwick
ENCORE
Susan Starr
Nicole & Allan Vella
Carolyn Lee Wills
ENTOURAGE
Drs. Starane Shepherd & David Long
Grace & Jason Martin
Carole Cole Musarra
Sara Ohmer
Wendi & Andrew Schutt
Sheryl & Tony Steadman
Heather & Joe Vivona
Riesling & Douglas Walker
Jenny & Woody White
Dorothy B. Ziemer
FOX FUN FACTS
EVERY VENUE HAS TRADITIONS. FEW HAVE A MANTRA.
“Play It Pretty for Atlanta” is a phrase that lives quietly behind the scenes at the Fox Theatre and carries enormous weight for those who pass beneath it. Its origin traces back to a legendary moment in Fox history. In 1976, while recording the album One More from the Road live at the Fox Theatre, Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman Ronnie Van Zant turned to his band onstage during “Free Bird” and said, “play it pretty for Atlanta.” The words weren’t scripted, but they landed. That performance would become iconic, and the band later directed proceeds from their Fox performances to support the Save the Fox campaign, helping ensure the theatre’s survival.
Over time, “Play It Pretty for Atlanta” evolved into a quiet ritual. At its core, the phrase is rooted in respect. Respect for the artists who step onto this stage. Respect for the crews who work tirelessly to make each show seamless. And respect for a city whose audiences are passionate and deeply connected to live performance. To play the Fox is to be welcomed into that relationship and to rise to it.
For Atlanta, it’s an affirmation. For performers, it’s a challenge. For the Fox, it’s a reflection of who we are: a place where performance is treated with care, intention, and reverence.
To “play it pretty” doesn’t mean perfection. It means giving your best to the music, to the moment, and to the city that’s listening.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAURA HOLLEY
