Riverdance at Marina Bay Sands

MANILA, Philippines - The original international phenomenon, Riverdance, which has enthralled more than 22 million people worldwide, returns to Singapore and marks the grand opening of the magnificent new Sands Theater at Marina Bay Sands, for a limited season of only 16 performances, starting Nov. 30 to Dec. 12.

Emerging from Ireland in 1994, nothing has rivalled the energy, sensuality and originality of Riverdance. For those who have not experienced it, the show focuses on the evolution of Irish dance, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures. Riverdance draws on Irish traditions and combines the richness of the music with the magic and sensuality of the dance.

The riveting production and thunderous celebration of Irish music, song and dance has tapped its way onto the world stage, thrilling more than 22 million people in over 300 venues worldwide throughout 32 countries across four continents, grossing over $1.6-B worldwide.

The Riverdance tour to Singapore will feature 31 amazing performers including the remarkable Riverdance Irish Troupe, the cream of Irish musicians, and an impressive array of talent from around the globe, all performing to enchanting Grammy award-winning music and lyrics. This is a performance that promises to touch your heart and move your feet.

Marina Bay Sands hosts the Singapore tour of Riverdance as the first show to grace the stage at its gleaming new theater. The brand-new Sands Theater at Marina Bay Sands is a state of the art venue which has been designed to showcase world-class entertainment of all genres for the ultimate guest experience. With 1,600 seats on two levels, it provides an intimate venue with excellent sight lines and acoustics.

With music and lyrics written by Bill Whelan, produced by Moya Doherty and directed by John McColgan, Riverdance is the development of an original idea by Doherty, which was initially performed at the Eurovision Song Contest held in Dublin in April 1994 as a seven-minute interval act. Its success has since become part of theater history.

The show then premiered at the Point Theatre, Dublin in February 1995 to unanimous critical acclaim, breaking box-office records. When it transferred to London in June of that same year, the audience response was so overwhelming that the original 10 performances had to be increased to 151 shows. Since then, it has packed theaters throughout North America, Oceania, Asia and Europe.

“It has been 10 years since Singapore has welcomed Riverdance to its shores, and I can’t think of a better show to open such a spectacular venue. Riverdance is a unique spectacle of unbelievable talent which I’m sure will capture the imagination and thrill audiences across Southeast Asia,” says Milan Rokic, managing director of BASE Entertainment Asia.

Marina Bay Sands president and CEO Thomas Arasi said, “It is important for Marina Bay Sands to provide extraordinary experiences for all our guests. The global appeal of Riverdance complements our line-up of attractions including the Sands SkyPark, the best celebrity chef restaurants and Asia’s premier shopping venue. We can’t wait for this spectacular performance to make its mark on our very own Sands Theater.”

For details, log on to www.marinabaysands.com/riverdance.aspx.