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It has been cold in Beijing since the new year, but the frigid weather hasn't dampened people's fervour for good Irish dance. The world-famous tap-dancing show 'Riverdance: Heartbeat of Home' RETURNED to China this week. Wednesday night's premiere saw top dancers from all over the world making a splash on the capital stage.
It's been over two decades since the 'Riverdance' appeared on stage, changing forever how the world views Irish dance and giving birth to a new entertainment genre. In 2013, the spectacular follow up to 'Riverdance' - 'Heartbeat of Home' once again captivated viewers by showcasing the performances of both Irish top dancers and other world-class dance talents. Many of them are veterans from the original 'Riverdance'.
JASON O'NEIL, LEAD DANCER 'HEARTBEAT OF HOME' "I saw Riverdance when I was like six or seven years old, so I was a little boy. It changed my life, it was an incredible show and I fell in love with it, and I saw the dancing every single day. I have been dancing for over 20 years, and I was very lucky to become a lead in Riverdance."
MAGGIE DARLINGTON, LEAD DANCER 'HEARTBEAT OF HOME' "I fell in love with it as well and I have been dancing for 20 years. Riverdance is such a blessing to come into my life."
The heart-stopping tour de force features the dynamic vibrant components of traditional Irish, Latin, Hip-Hop, and Afro-Cuban music and dance combined in a new and exciting fusion. It also employs high-definition, cutting-edge projection technology and has an engaging narrative structure. With over 30 performers on stage, 'Heartbeat of Home' is a tantalizing and high-octane extravaganza.
JASON O'NEIL, LEAD DANCER 'HEARTBEAT OF HOME' "It is so incredible to be surrounded by such talents every night, everyone is so professional."
The show debuted in China in 2013 and kicked off its world tour after that.
MAGGIE DARLINGTON, LEAD DANCER 'HEARTBEAT OF HOME' "It is just so exciting for us as a group to experience a different culture together.'
'Riverdance: Heartbeat of Home' will be staged at the Beijing Exhibition Theater until January 6th.