BalletBoyz - Review by Madi Clarke

***** (5 Stars)

Grand Opera House, York - Wednesday 12 March, 2014

The performance consists of two separate dances. Both performances started with a short video expressing the chorographers’ intentions and giving an insight to the dancers. In addition, these short clips provided an understanding of the amount of hard work that had been given to every element of the show.

The first entitled ‘Serpent’ is a contemporary piece that involves fluid movement with classical music accompanying it. The costume is minimal, exposing the male dancers' physiques. As intended by the chorographer (Liam Scarlett), this enhanced the movement perfectly and does not distract. More over, Scarlett’s use of partner work creates a relationship on stage between each of the dancers, drawing you in.  Each Dancer has amazing talent and clearly portrays a variety of emotions.

Max Richter’s music delivers a classical beauty to the piece; enriching the overall experience Serpent is a truly mesmerizing performance.

The second dance, Fallen, choreographed by Russell Maliphant is equally alluring, although provided a very different mood. The movement is raw, jagged and extremely well danced. In contrast to the first piece, Michael Hulls lighting was integral to the overall feel, with the use of shadows and spotlights. Moreover, the clever staging means the audience has a clear view of the wings and lighting equipment. This opens up the stage, inviting the audience in, and gives an added intensity to the overall performance. The music in Fallen was evocative, building to crescendos. It involved sounds effects of water dripping and wings beating.

The artistic directors, Michael Nunn and William Trevitt, and rehearsal director Cameron McMillan have formed a breathtaking experience worthy of 5 stars, with the ten extraordinarily talented Balleyboyz.

For all the information on BalletBoyz, check out their website: http://www.balletboyz.com/