Rambert

I always leave a Rambert performance exhausted, but it is the same exhaustion that one feels on waking from an exciting dream. Rambert are always exhilarating and last night was no exception. Frames by Alexander Whitley contrasted the elegance of the human form with the rigours of steel, mechanical against human. Complex shapes and moves, witty references to bar work and a score by Daniel Bjarnason that soared into a Vivaldi-like crescendo, Whitley is a talent to watch.

The Strange Charm of Mother Nature is Mark Baldwin’s new work, and here he uses classical forms to express ideas inspired by a visit to the Large Hadron Collider at Cern. Elegant yet explosive, using three contrasting pieces of music, this new exploration of science and nature from Baldwin shows him at his most eloquent. The company showed at their precise, well schooled best in this very beautiful new work. Of course that precision and basis in the rigours of pure dance technique is the cornerstone of Rambert’s ability to deliver world class dance. Finally to Rooster, Christopher Bruce’s classic work to music by the Rolling Stones. Here the company strut, jive and flirt their way through a courtship ritual that has more to do with the Elizabethans and West Side Story than it does to pop. Entertaining, exciting and comedic – Rooster deserves the recognition that it has attained since first performed.

Theatre Royal Brighton, March 25 2015

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