By JACKIE MOE
When “Riverdance 30 – The New Generation” arrives at Segerstrom Center for the Arts May 15-17, audiences will see more than a revival of one of the world’s most celebrated dance productions. They’ll see the next generation carrying forward a legacy that began before many of the current cast members were even born.
Seen by more than 31 million people worldwide, Riverdance celebrates its 30th anniversary this year with updated choreography, costumes and visuals while staying rooted in the iconic music and dance that made it a global sensation.
Backstage SoCal spoke with lead dancer Olivia Nachtigal about joining the production, the physical demands of the show and what it feels like to step into such a historic role.
Q: As part of the “New Generation” of Riverdance, what does it mean to step into something so iconic that existed before you were even born?
Olivia Nachtigal: It’s a privilege to follow in the footsteps of such iconic dancers who created so many opportunities for young dancers wanting to get into shows. Being part of a legacy as great as Riverdance is incredible because it changed the way the world views Irish dancing.
Q: When did you first become aware of Riverdance? Was it something you grew up watching or dreaming about?
Nachtigal: I remember seeing Riverdance when I was about 10 years old. It opened my eyes to a whole new world of dance I didn’t even know existed. It was the first time I realized Irish dancing could be more than competitions.
Q: The show looks effortless, but it’s incredibly demanding. What does your body go through during a performance?
Nachtigal: Irish dancing is a mix between tap and ballet, so it’s incredibly demanding. You have to stay light on your feet while also creating the power and rhythms audiences love. The show is just over two hours long, and we perform eight shows a week, so we all have to stay extremely fit and take great care of ourselves offstage.
Q: How do you balance the technical discipline of Irish dance with personal expression onstage?
Nachtigal: I love show dancing because it allows you to show your personality onstage. We spend years perfecting the technical basics through competitions, so performing in the show becomes more about facial expressions and body language.
Q: What’s your pre-show ritual to get into that level of focus and energy?
Nachtigal: One ritual we have is a group warmup side stage. Even if it’s only five minutes together, it helps get everyone on the same level mentally and physically before we go onstage.
Q: What’s the camaraderie like within the cast today?
Nachtigal: It truly feels like a family. We always say we hire the people, not just the dancers, and I think that creates a really special bond within the cast.
Q: Have you felt that sense of history backstage, knowing how many dancers came before you?
Nachtigal: Absolutely. You can feel the history of the show backstage. We’re constantly inspired by the original cast members and want to continue their legacy. Because so much of the choreography and music remains the same, we feel deeply connected to the show’s roots.
Q: Is there a specific moment in the show that still gives you chills every time?
Nachtigal: The iconic “Riverdance” number is still my favorite. It’s the piece that started it all at Eurovision in 1994, and the music, costumes and choreography never get old. From start to finish, it’s such an honor to perform.
Q: What do you hope audiences at Segerstrom Center for the Arts take away from the performance?
Nachtigal: I hope people leave with a deeper appreciation for Irish dance and for how beautifully different cultures can come together through music and movement. And for young dancers in the audience, I hope they leave inspired to keep working hard and dream about one day performing on a big stage themselves.
RIVERDANCE 30 – The New Generation
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Tickets for RIVERDANCE 30 starting at $44, are available for purchase online at scfta.org
714.556.2787 or scfta.org
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