The 18 graduating students of the Arden Theatre School's Dance And Performance Degree course, gave their final showcase as students this afternoon in the college's main theatre within the bowels of UCEN Manchester City College's central campus.
This was a 40 minute romp of spirited contemporary dance, interspersed with a large video screen at the rear showcasing each dancer individually as well as showing us a few of the other elements learnt on this course, such as aerial [silks and hoop], tap, and fire-eating.
The students performed 9 short pieces live, starting with a very impressive opening full company number, utilising some nice groupings, a few acrobatic leaps and high kicks, and good use of the space, finishing with a lovely picture.
The following 8 short routines followed in much the same vein in varying group sizes, a costume change for each, allowing every student their 'moment' in the spotlight, which was cleverly and impartially organised. The standard of dancing was higher than I have seen from students on this particular course in a while, and their commitment to each piece, and their obvious love and joy of performing was apparent right from the start, and shone through the whole showcase.
I was a little disappointed, I have to admit, that there was little in variation of style / genre of dance this afternoon. It was all commercial / contemporary except for one - a solo girl giving us a short but intricate tap routine. However, these students are now ready to start their professional journeys and as such, one can only wish them well.
Reviewer - Matthew Dougall
on - 16.5.23
on - 16.5.23
No comments:
Post a Comment