MAGIC OF THE DANCE

MAGIC OF THE DANCE
Touring
Runs: 2h 15m, one interval
Review: Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Rod Dungate, 6 August 2007

The magic explodes on to the stage

This really is thrilling tap – dance like you’ve never seen it before; can people’s feet really do this?! The engaging, energetic and talented company hold you entranced as they weave their tale through Irish dance – with a bit of US help too. The feet fireworks are matched by exciting staging replete with smoke, flashing lights and generous amounts of fire.

From the first lovers duet, where the dance counter-points the lyrical music, and the explosive entry of the demons you know you are in for a great evening’s entertainment.

A flexible story framework holds the show together; two you lovers emigrate to the US to escape the Great Famine of 1845. However the demons of starvation split the lovers who are parted on arrival in the States. Eventually they meet again and live happily ever after. The narrative is told in voice-over by Christopher Lee; and the story, though slight, gives the show a feeling of movement.

The dance lives up to the show’s title – it really is magic, moving far beyond what most of us think of as traditional Irish dance. Alan Kenefick is the undoubted star of the show as the Devil lead; muscular and leather-clad, at times intense, at times modern bad-boy he’s a great favourite with the audience.

JL Williams leads the American section. He’s totally engaging with an easy-going manner; his dancing skills are matched by his sense of comedy. Bryan Berry, another member of the US section, is an astoundingly powerful dancer. During the US / Irish ‘street battle’ (one of the dance high-spots) his fast, pounding rhythms beggar belief.

The show falters a little in the second half, though. There are remarkable performances in the New York section but the lack of narrative means the show loses momentum. Shame about this.

(These credits are taken from the programme, details may vary)

Aland Kenefick: Devil Lead
Suzanne Cleary (Devil Lead and Dance Captain
Michelle Lawrence: Romantic Lead
Kieran Hardiman: Romantic Lead
JL Williams: American Tap Section
Bryan Berry: American Tap Section
Peter Harding: Artistic Director
Jaka Bizilj: Producer
John Carey: Chief Choreographer
Michael Donnellan: Choreographer
Bob Bales: Musical Director
Christopher Lee: Narrator

2007-08-07 11:46:56