Lead Dancer Archives - Riverdance

Mairead Trainor

Mairead from London began dancing at the age of two for the Trainor School of Irish Dance – run by her mother, aunt and cousin. Throughout her competitive career she won all major titles including the World Championships in 2019. She is a qualified personal trainer and has a passion for helping & training dancers. … Continued

Ellie-Mae Wheeler

Ellie-Mae from London, UK began her dance journey at the age of 11 with the Claddagh Academy in London. During her competitive career, she placed 6th at the World Championships and won multiple major titles. In 2017, she was awarded a scholarship to the Riverdance Summer School, where she was selected to perform with the … Continued

Gerard Byrne

Gerard from County Donegal, Ireland began dancing at the age of 5 for the McNelis Cunningham Boyle School of Dance. During a successful 14 years of competing, he won several prestigious competitions, including three World Championship titles. He has performed with shows including Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance, Rhythm of the Dance and Celtic … Continued

Olivia Nachitigal

Olivia from Western Canada began dancing at the age of 4 years old. She danced competitively for the Mattierin School of Irish dance in Edmonton and won many competitive titles, including placing top 5 at the World championships. She attended the Riverdance Summer School in Dublin in 2019 and her dream came true when she … Continued

Fergus Fitzpatrick

Fergus from Co. Meath, Ireland discovered his passion for dance at the age of eight. With his sister Anna Mai, he grew up competing internationally in Irish dancing competitions. Under the tutelage of Holly and Kavanagh Academy of Irish Dance, Fergus achieved his dream of becoming a World Champion in 2017. He joined Riverdance performing … Continued

William Bryant

Will is an accomplished stage, film and commercial dance artist. Having trained in various styles of dance including ballet, contemporary, jazz, musical theatre and tap, Will felt a deep connection with the culture, musicality, and precision of Irish dance. Born in Australia, he grew up travelling the globe competing in Irish dance, winning State and … Continued

Maggie Darlington

Maggie Darlington, Principal Dancer, Riverdance touring North America in 2025