A creative double bill exploring the relationships between people and how we see ourselves in relation to another.

The first piece was created by the company of dancers. A collaborative and imaginative work which was costumed in a fun 80’s style tracksuit and taking precedence on the stripped bare stage was a large scaffolding cube. The dancers used this prop in such a way that when they were not dancing with it I craved more. The strength shown to complete certain moves on this apparatus was phenomenal and I could just imagine the fun they had creating this piece and that was exactly what I took from this work. Hand shaking and shoulder shrug motives brought the theme to life using everyday movements into dance. Charlotte Harding’s string score accompanied the work perfectly showing light and shade, fun and tenderness.

Moving into the second part of the bill. Created by the award winning Christopher Wheeldon in 2017, this year we see an extended version of the duet using the rest of the company adding an entrée to this extraordinary piece.

The dancers start by wearing linen morning suits. Looking comfortable yet distinguished. The climactic duet was performed shirtless which I can only describe as mesmerising. Their bodies intertwining with sensitivity and strength, seeing every single muscle flex and contour with each lift and stretch and was fascinating to watch and to appreciate how a dancer’s body works to create these stunning pieces of work. I barely noticed the music which must have been a perfect accompaniment to not let it take away from the performance.

Two different pieces in terms of choreography but similar in contemporary styles, which connected the two halves perfectly. Balletboyz showed us why ballet is the backbone to many styles of dance and you could tell they all had this fundamental classical training groundwork.

A thoroughly enjoyable evening and I am extremely glad I witnessed the works of this prestigious and talented company.

Main Image: BalletBoyz