Riverdance 30 A New Generation, More Dazzling Than Ever

By Sheryl Jensen

Since Riverdance first emerged onto the world stage, its fusion of Irish and international dance and music has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. The Grammy award-winning music and the infectious energy of its mesmerizing choreography and breathtaking performances have left audiences in awe and established Riverdance as a global cultural sensation.

To celebrate this incredible 30th year milestone, Riverdance has embarked on a special anniversary tour, bringing its magic to audiences around the world. This spectacular production rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new, innovative choreography and costumes and state of the art lighting, projection and motion graphics.

And for the first time, Riverdance welcomes “The New Generation” of performers, all of whom were not born when the show began 30 years ago. This special anniversary production, coming to the DECC for one night on May 17, welcomes an entirely new generation of dancers to the stage, some of whom have been dreaming of being a part of the Irish dance phenomenon since their youth.

Since its inception, Riverdance has been seen by over 30 million people in over 49 countries across six continents. The show has played over 16,000 performances and featured 1,500 Irish dancers. The various casts of the hit Irish dance show have produced 72 marriages and 134 “Riverdance babies” – three of whom have now performed in the show.

John McColgan, Director of Riverdance, said, “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.”

McColgan added, “On this tour we are 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.”

Meet Will Bryant

Will Bryant, Lead Dancer in Riverdance 30  Photo credit © Abhann Productions

Born in Sydney, Australia, Will Bryant trained with the Halloran Dance School in Irish, ballet, contemporary and tap from the age of four. Will performed lead roles in musical productions and made regular appearances on TV.

He studied for a Bachelor of Music and is an accomplished guitarist. Will is also studying personal training on and off tour.

Following an impressive competitive Irish dance career, placing top-three internationally and winning state and national titles, he performed with Celtic Illusion and Heartbeat of Home. In 2014, Bryant joined Riverdance and has toured worldwide since. He is thrilled to be part of the lead team.

Brothers Kieran and Will Bryant are both lead dancers in Riverdance 30. Shown here on the stage at Radio City Music Hall.

Will is happy to have his brother Kieran Bryant (also a lead dancer) and his girlfriend Haley Richardson (who plays fiddle in the show) on the tour with him.

Will and his girlfriend Haley Richardson, a fiddler in the Riverdance company

He added, “It is hard to be away from family so long on tour. I have been basically living out of a suitcase for twelve years. But I love seeing new and interesting places. And the people in the company get along well and like to go do things together as a group. “

“I am proud to be a member of this elite company, The work ethic, attitude, and showmanship of everyone involved is top notch.”

Will noted, “Dancing for me is my life, and how I express myself creatively. And I love the energy and enthusiasm we get from each new audience. The show is bigger and more exciting than ever before with dancers from all over the world.”

Next for Broadway in Duluth 2025-26 Season

The DECC will be bringing a new five-show Broadway season starting in the fall. They invite you to join them for another amazing year of unforgettable performances, laughter, and magic at the DECC!

Season Tickets start at $189.00. Tickets are available by calling the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center Ticket Office at (218) 727-4344 or in person Wednesday – Friday, 10am – 2pm at 350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN 55802.

2025-26 Broadway at the DECC Season
The Book of Mormon – October 28, 2025
A Magical Cirque Christmas – December 16, 2025
Tina: The Tina Turner Musical – February 15, 2026
Hadestown – March 16, 2026
The Music Man – April 29, 2026

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