Riverdance in Cincinnati

When Jeanette first mentioned Riverdance, I was reluctant - 2 1/2 hr drive (one way)an auction on Saturday, and on my excuses went. But I am so glad we went - it was the break I needed.

Our adventures started trying to find a parking space in downtown..hmmm - we choose Fountain Square because it was the same street as the Center. Well, at least, it was when we entered. The elevator took us up to the Square where we were totally turned around. After a few minutes and a couple of pics, we found our street. Thankfully, we were only a few blocks from the Arnoff Center. (My aunt is scheduled for surgery and I was concerned about a long walk for her).

The Arnoff Center is a newer building with decor perfect for a performance such as Riverdance. We were quite envious of those in the box seats but completely forgot about that as the first note came from the pipes. We were totally carried away with the story of Ireland's heritage. Although I have always been partial to the fiddler, and this one simply swept me off my feet, all of the musicians were very talented. In addition to the fiddle, pipes, keyboard, and percussionist (he added so much), the saxophone was an added surprise. The dancers, whether soloists, duos or as the entire troupe, were incredible. The Flamenco Dancer in her beauty and passion was an unexpected force. Everyone added to the beauty of the story and yet added a piece of themselves to the performance. The Russian Ballet Co made us catch our breath with the height of their leaps and their throws - it was just wild. The acapella voices raised in harmony telling the story of sorrow and joy. All of these talented and very accomplished individuals make up the whole of Riverdance.

But the song that embodies Riverdance to me was sung by Michael Samuels, this incredible baritone singer, whose voice filled the house. It was a powerful, bring you to tears, thought provoking song and he delivered. Here are the lyrics to "Heal Their Hearts" and few of pictures, some from the Riverdance website and brochure and a few of my own.

In the deep night
From a dark space
I hear voices calling out in heartache
They are wounded
They are broken
But their spirit rises when awoken
Yes, they may be poor in birth - but
Yes, how great each one is worth
Heal their Hearts
Feed their Souls
Their lives can be golden if your love enfolds

In their dreamtimes
In their visions
How they always hunger after freedom
Every hard load
Every dark road
Leads them on to reach a new horizon
Yes, they may be poor in birth - but
Yes, how great each one is worth

Heal their Hearts
Feed their Souls
Their lives can be golden if your love enfolds

Freedom
Lord, where is our freedom?
When will our hope begin?
Lord, what of the promise you made?
When will it come?
We have waited for the time
For the truth to live, when justice will shine
Too long those hands of greed
Held on and made us bleed
When will your people breathe
Lord, will it come?

Lord, what of our children?
Will they always depend on you?
Lord, why are they scattered and torn
And their young hearts in chains
How they hunger for liberty
Feel their hatred of poverty
Let their spirit rise, soaring free
Lord let it come
Our day will come

All in all....Riverdance is a captivating must-see!

Joy 2 u...until next time! "C"