‘Ten’ doesn’t hold back, with a bassy soundscore driving the rhythmical force 7 dancers begin spiralling in and out of line in intricate patterns. The textured backdrop sets a landscape away from the usual straight lines and corners of a theatre space, but the speed in which the dancers move and seamlessly change formation quickly draws all your attention. José Agudo’s Kathak and Martial Arts influences are instantly recognisable, and the complex rhythms and overlapping opening movement introduces us clearly to every member of the cast.

The most memorable moments of the piece combine the powerful physicality with building rhythms of stamping, clapping and voice. The use of voice is particularly powerful, and the way that members of the group individually contribute to the overall rhythm with different patterns has the feeling of a family unit – each member holding a different responsibility for the whole. The layering music really compliments the driving force of the movement in these moments, and allows the dancers rhythms to rise and fall within a strong timing.

A stand out moment takes place when six dancers connect to form one breathing circular entity, excluding one dancer. Although a fleeting moment amongst the piece as a whole, the image of strength in softness amongst the otherwise unrelenting intensity is beautiful and something I would love to see more of.

As the lights fade and the dancers journey continues to move towards the landscape on the backdrop, I am left wanting to know more about the relationship between the brothers. Overall the work has a sense of community strength throughout, and that these characters will never become worn down over time, they will keep moving in the face of adversity. The dancers perform with such visceral energy and raw physicality that I challenge anybody to sit still in the audience!

Top image: ACE Dance and Music