THEATRE REVIEW: Northern Ballet’s Mixed Programme 2015

(GayWebSource.com – Gay News & Press Network) – Posted by Jake Simpson – TheGayUK.com

Every year, Northern Ballet performs a mixed programme, which showcases a number of short, and very different, pieces of dance in the intimacy of the Stanley and Audrey Burton Theatre. This year’s selection was a contrasting and eclectic mix of style and pace, which provided one of the most enjoyable theatrical productions I have seen so far this year.

★★★★★

Courtesy of Northern Ballet; Photo by Emma Kauldher

Opening the show was “The Northern Trilogy”, an anthology of three pieces which capture the spirit and humour of Yorkshire. This light, comedic section, played out to the dulcet tones of Stanley Holloway, and was breezy and jovial and resonated with the Yorkshire audience.

“Fatal Kiss” saw a fiery, passionate pas de deux, telling the story of a man facing his own death in the form of a last kiss, which he is reluctant to accept. Presented in black and red, and with a touch of the Argentine Tango running through it, the South American inspired piece was an intense and dramatic piece of dance.

“Little Monsters” told the story of a relationship from initial infatuation to break up, set against the backdrop of three songs by Elvis Presley. The intricate and subtle movements of Joseph Taylor and Dreda Blow were mesmerising.

“Perpetuum Mobile” is a more traditional ballet piece, with lively classical music and wave after wave of movement and pattern. Although choreographed with no particular narrative, the piece contrasted beautifully with the more modern pieces which preceded it.

Finally, “The Architect”, devised by principal dancer, Kenneth Tindall, explored the concept of whether we are born to sin. Based on the story of Adam and Eve, it utilised a harsh, industrial soundtrack, interesting set, dramatic lighting and inventive choreography to bring the evening to a stunning crescendo.

Northern Ballet is primarily known for their narrative ballets, and when watching their full scale productions, it is very easy to get lost in the story and to forget just how talented the company is. Stripping back the mixed programme to a bare stage, with minimal lighting and costumes, really allowed the audience to focus on the dancing itself. Watching the performances in such close proximity, where you could see the flexing of every muscle, brought home just how superbly talented the dancers are, and it was an excellent showcase for those who took to the stage to display their technical ability. The four pieces fed perfectly into the final piece, which seemed to combine all of the elements that had come before it, namely humour, passion, intricacy and traditional ballet, which fused together to demonstrate why this award winning company continues to shine.

The Mixed Programme is being performed at the Stanley and Audrey Burton Theatre in Leeds until the 9th May 2015, before transferring to the Linbury Studio Theatre in London from the 12th to the 14th May 2015. The fourth piece, Perpetuum Mobile, is paired with Madame Butterfly, and is touring nationally in May to June at various dates and venues.

For further details and to book tickets, visit www.northernballet.com

by Paul Szabo