'' Riverdance '' was the interval act in the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest which contributed to the popularity of Irish stepdance , and is still considered a significant watershed in Irish culture . Its roots are in a three-part suite of baroque-influenced traditional music called " Timedance " composed , recorded and performed for the 1994 contest , which was hosted in Ireland . This first performance featured American-born Irish dancing champions Jean Butler and Michael Flatley , the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and the Celtic choral group Anúna with a score written by Bill Whelan . '' Riverdance '' 's success includes an eight-week sell out season at Radio City Music Hall , New York , with the sales of merchandise resulting in Radio City Music Hall merchandise sale 's record smashed during the first performance , sell-out tours at King 's Hall , Belfast , Northern Ireland , and The Green Glens Arena , Millstreet , Co . Cork , Ireland , plus a huge three and a half-month return to The Apollo in Hammersmith with advance ticket sales of over
1994 contest
Eurovision Song Contest 1994
Irish stepdance