The world of dance is a universal language, one that transcends verbal communication and speaks directly to the heart. Matthew Bourne’s latest production is a testament to this, as it weaves a complex tale of love, loss, and longing in the gritty streets of 1930s Soho. The show is a beautifully crafted piece of storytelling, set to the haunting sounds of Terry Davies’ original music and the carefully chosen songs of the 1930s. As the audience is transported to a bygone era, they are introduced to a cast of characters that are both flawed and fascinating, each with their own unique story to tell. From the lonely spinster Miss Roach, to the young homosexual couple Frank and Albert, every character is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of empathy and understanding from the audience.
As the show unfolds, the audience is treated to a masterclass in dance, with each performer bringing their own unique style and flair to the stage. The choreography is inventive and intricate, with the cast moving in perfect harmony as they navigate the complexities of their characters’ relationships. The set, designed by Lez Brotherston, is a character in its own right, seamlessly shifting from the dimly lit bar of The Midnight Bell pub to the seedy streets of Soho. The sound design by Paul Groothuis and lighting by Paule Constable add to the overall atmosphere, creating a sense of immersion that draws the audience in and refuses to let go. As the story twists and turns, the audience is taken on a journey of discovery, one that is both poignant and powerful. The themes of love, loss, and longing are timeless, and the show’s exploration of these themes is both nuanced and thought-provoking.
One of the standout aspects of the show is the way in which it tackles the difficult subject of homosexuality in the 1930s. The story of Frank and Albert, played by Edwin Ray and Liam Mower, is a poignant and powerful one, as they navigate the dangers and complexities of their relationship in a time when it was not socially accepted. The way in which their story is woven into the overall narrative is nothing short of genius, as it adds a depth and complexity to the show that is both captivating and compelling. The performances of the entire cast are superb, with each dancer bringing their own unique energy and passion to the stage. Michela Meazza shines as the lonely spinster Miss Roach, while Glenn Graham brings a sense of sleazy charm to the role of the cad, Ernest Ralph Gorse. However, it is the performances of Edwin Ray and Liam Mower that truly steal the show, as they bring a sense of vulnerability and tenderness to their portrayal of Frank and Albert.
The show’s use of music and dance to tell the story is a bold and innovative choice, one that pays off in spectacular fashion. The way in which the cast uses the songs of the 1930s to convey the emotions and motivations of their characters is nothing short of brilliant, as it adds a sense of authenticity and depth to the narrative. The choreography is equally impressive, with the cast moving in perfect harmony as they bring the story to life. The show’s exploration of the human condition is both nuanced and thought-provoking, as it delves into the complexities of love, loss, and relationships. The way in which the characters interact with each other is beautifully realized, with each performance bringing a sense of depth and emotion to the stage. The show’s themes of love, loss, and longing are timeless, and the way in which they are explored is both poignant and powerful.
The overall effect of the show is one of breathtaking beauty, as the cast, choreography, and music come together to create a truly unforgettable experience. The show’s use of dance to tell the story is a powerful reminder of the universality of this art form, as it transcends verbal communication and speaks directly to the heart. The show’s exploration of the human condition is both nuanced and thought-provoking, as it delves into the complexities of love, loss, and relationships. The performances of the cast are superb, with each dancer bringing their own unique energy and passion to the stage. The show’s themes of love, loss, and longing are timeless, and the way in which they are explored is both poignant and powerful. Whether you are a fan of dance or not, this show is an absolute must-see, as it is a truly accomplished piece of storytelling that will leave you breathless and wanting more.
In conclusion, Matthew Bourne’s latest production is a masterpiece of storytelling, one that uses dance and music to convey the complexities of the human condition. The show’s exploration of love, loss, and longing is both poignant and powerful, as it delves into the intricacies of relationships and the human experience. The performances of the cast are superb, with each dancer bringing their own unique energy and passion to the stage. The show’s use of music and dance to tell the story is a bold and innovative choice, one that pays off in spectacular fashion. With its themes of love, loss, and longing, this show is a must-see for anyone who has ever experienced the complexities of the human heart. The show runs until September 13th, and then goes on tour until October, so be sure to catch it while you can. With its incredible cast, stunning choreography, and haunting music, this show is an unforgettable experience that will leave you breathless and wanting more.
