How many times have you seen 38 performers on the same stage? Have you ever? What does it even look like? Well it is awe inspiring, especially when those 38 are members of the talented National Youth Dance Company and guided by the talent of Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui.
The show is a medley of his three previous shows, ampliflied by the huge cast at his disposal. The performance is energetic, perhaps eager is the correct word. Sixteen to nineteen year olds getting up on stage at Sadler‘s Wells is a tremendous opportunity, as will getting a chance to experience touring life in the summer.
There are some individual moments of brilliance but on the whole this show is very much about the ensemble and the choreography, not about giving any one dancer a star shot. While I feel at the end like I want to see some more individuality, it would ruin the tremendous power of a massive group being on stage together, no one shining brighter than the other. It is at times poignant, innovative and funny.
The energy in this dance is memorable, there’s a joy seeing performers from a dozen backgrounds and styles coming together to create something unique. Its scale sweeps you up but that would mean little on its own. Its the 38 dancers working for each other that will strike you, in this wonderful example of modern dance. Highly recommended when it goes on its massive tour. It probably won‘t be the last time you see these dancers on stage, but it is a great opportunity for it to be the first. 4/5
Review written by Ingimar Sverrisson.
Frame[d] was shown at Sadler’s Wells on Friday 10th April. Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui will be showcasing his work Eastman at Sadler’s Wells from Tuesday 23rd-Wednesday 24th June. For more information on the production, visit here…
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