AS THE record-breaking Irish dance spectacular Riverdance heads back to Bournemouth in May, The Daily Echo is offering the chance to take lessons from the production's dance masters.

Described by the Irish Times as "The original... the best", Riverdance opens for a six-night run at the BIC on May 15 midway through a new 12-date UK tour Back by popular demand, the show originally opened in February 1995 at the Point Theatre, Dublin. It was an immediate sensation and has now been seen live by more than 19 million people.

The statistics are dizzying. There have been over 9,000 performances in more than 260 venues worldwide. It has played 32 countries across four continents. Meanwhile, it has been seen on TV by more than 1.75 billion people.

Now the show's producers, in conjunction with the Daily Echo, are giving two lucky readers the chance to actually win a masterclass from the show's dancers.

To be in with a chance of winning this excellent prize, simply answer the following question: Which popular singing contest led to the embryonic Riverdance getting its first seven-minute airing on television back in April 1994?

Put your answer, along with your name, address and a daytime telephone number on a postcard and send it to: Riverdance Competition, c/o Jeremy Miles, Entertainment editor, Daily Echo, Richmond Hill, Bournemouth, Dorset BH2 6HH. Entries must arrive by noon on Monday, May 7, and normal competition rules apply.

The masterclass, which will be run to coincide with the show's arrival in Bournemouth, will offer one-to-one tuition in the basics of Irish dancing from members of the Riverdance troupe who are among some of the most experienced professional Irish dancers in the world.

Organiser say it is great fun and suitable for anyone from absolute beginners, through to people who have some experience.

Troupe members will be able to answer questions and will be happy to sign autographs and pose for pictures Individual feedback will be given and pointers for future improvement outlined The class will last an hour and be in or around the venue Riverdance is playing in. Participants need to wear comfortable exercise clothes and trainers.

Riverdance plays the Bournemouth International Centre from May 15 to 20.