Riverdance, born back in 1994 and acclaimed around the world ever since, is finally tapping its way onto the capital's stage from April 28.

The song and dance extravaganza has proved a worldwide hit since its debut in Dublin seven years ago.

Produced by Moya Doherty, who had the original idea of creating a grand show depicting Ireland, its people and its culture, the show started small.

It was brought to life by Bill Whelan, who composed the stunning seven-minute Riverdance piece for the Eurovision Song Contest back in 1994.

After leaving that huge audience speechless, the producers realized they were on to something. Encouraged by the rousing response, Riverdance the Show was born under director John Mccolgan.

Since then, the show has toured around 30 countries on four continents and been seen live by over 15 million people. Billions more have witnessed the show on TV. The Riverdance Company is now bringing the Broadway-style musical to China.

Performers from Moscow Folklore Ballet Troupe supplement the show. The performers come from Britain, the United States, Canada, Australia, and, of course, Ireland.

An exciting display of music, dance and singing, the show is a story of Ireland and its people. Like a river that is fed by many tributaries, and then flows out into the ocean, the Irish people came from many different places, like Spain, France, Britain, and then, centuries later, "flowed" out of Ireland to other parts of the world after a failed potato crop.

Around a million Irish headed abroad, many to America.

The show is composed of two acts. The first one depicting the hard life of the Irish ancestors, of their fear, joy and origins and their love of nature.

The second act depicts the life of Irish who migrated overseas, mainly to the United States. It tells of the cultural conflicts and compromises. The show blends many cultures; scenes are dedicated to Russian, African-American, Spanish flamingo dancing and, of course, Irish tap dancing.

It aims to mesmerize the audience from beginning to end, and audiences are encouraged to join in by clapping to the music and to get involved emotionally and physically with the show.

Tickets: 180 to 880 yuan (US$21.68-106.02), 1,280 yuan (US$154.21) for stageside tickets

Time/date: April 28 to May 4

Location: Capital Gymnasium, Baishiqiao Lu

Tel: 6406-8888, 6406-9999

(Beijing Weekend March 24, 2003)