WHAT started out as a musical ripple at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994 went on to make waves all over the world.

This year they are on a 20th anniversary tour and it is as stunning now as it was when I first saw it as a piece of theatre.

Past meets present in a truly inspired fusion of music, vocals and outstanding choreography.

This is a pure celebration of song and dance - the universal language.

Michael Flatley will always be associated with its claim to fame, but the same team from day one are behind it now and as proud as ever that its 15-scene showcase - with dazzling finale - appeal to all ages.

The sublime Irish dancing and ethereal Clannad-styled songs bring you a real taste of Dublin.

Oh, but this is a show with global appeal.

Beautiful backdrops make you feel you are sitting, relaxing, dreaming in a magnificent spa.

Each scene has its own title, theme and personality and its own unique identity from the Reel Around the Sun to Slip into Spring - The Harvest.

After the interval there is a Trans-Atlantic dance competition between the Irish and the Afro-Americans.

Who wins?

Who cares?

The audience.

The Liffey meets the Hudson.

Real River dancers, tapping the light fantastic.

This two-hour 20 minute show from Live Nation crosses boundaries with scenes from Russia to Spain - the latter courtesy of a feisty flamenco.

The four musicians are faultless and seem to be having as much fun as the all-age group audience.

The title Riverdance is the climax of this breathtaking feast of fun. I mean it, I tried to do a dance in the foyer on the way out and almost needed a paramedic.

Skill and passion are trademarks of this timeless creative concept and is is a joy to be see and hear it.

Riverdance is a celebration of pure talent.

I enjoyed this milestone all over again and it took me back in time and made me realise that 20 years on, such gifted people can give you the feel good factor by performing outstanding sequences that do not date - how can they?

I am 20 years older, but Riverdance is as young and vibrant as ever.

They once called it a day as a touring outfit, but decided wisely that you never say never.

Thank goodness.

This ensemble troupe are back and as warm and engaging as ever.

I hope I am reviewing it again on its 25th anniversary and beyond.

Pure magic, to be sure.

9/10 - A River Trance

The show ends its Liverpool Empire run on Sunday.

Tickets from the box office on 0844877660