Irish performance dancing is traditionally referred to as step dance. Irish step dance became popular in 1994 by the world-famous show "Riverdance,” which is notable for its rapid leg movements while body and arms are kept largely stationary.

Riverdance was first performed during the interval of the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest on April 30. This first performance featured Irish Dancing Champion Jean Butler, Michael Flatley and the Celtic choral group Anúna with a score written by Bill Whelan. Flatley choreographed for himself and Jean Butler choreographed her solo and the troupe. Many of the dance troupe featured in this performance subsequently went on to dance principal roles in later productions of "Riverdance the Show". Riverdance is produced and directed by husband and wife John McColganand and Moya Doherty, and controlled through their production company Abhann Productions based in Dublin.

In November 1994, tickets were sold in Dublin for the first full-length show of Riverdance, which opened at the Point Theatre on February 9, 1995. The show ran for five weeks and was a sell-out.

Michael Flatley left the show reportedly over creative differences with the producers before the show's first run in London. Irish dancer Colin Dunne stepped into the role of lead dancer and went on to perform in subsequent productions before leaving the show in 1998.

After successful runs in other cities in Europe, Riverdance traveled to New York City to perform at the legendary Radio City Music Hall in March 1996. This was the first time the show was performed in America. To the relief of the producers, the show was a success. Anúna left the show in September of that year.