A perfectly mixed cocktail of ballet delights. Rating
Excellent
Celebrating its second anniversary, Ballet Nights Bound in Motion is a vibrant mixed bill of dance, from contemporary to classical. Performed at the stunning Cadogan Hall under the expert guidance of artistic director Jamiel Devernay-Laurence, who also compères the evening. It exudes an air of occasion, and rightly so, showcasing how Ballet Nights has firmly established itself as a major force in the dance world over the past two years.
The programming is sublime, blending emerging talent with established performers and fusing the classical with the contemporary. Witnessing the second anniversary of Ballet Nights makes the evening all the more meaningful. The evening is full of firsts, including the UK debut of Ballet D’Jèrri, Jersey’s National Ballet, Footsteps performed by founding members Ombline Noyer and Donovan Délis-McCarthy.
It is also the first programming from Ballet Nights of flamenco, performed this evening by Andrés Barrios and El Yiyo whose passionate and fiery dance offers something exciting and new.
Three final year students from Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance perform Sirens, choreographed by Omar Toussaint, another third-year student at the school, inspired by Alberto Mieglo’s short film Jibaro, exploring the mythical and somewhat misunderstood creatures, sirens. The piece is ethereal and mythical, and the dancers are incredibly talented, showcasing the excellent calibre of Rambert’s students.
Femina is the largest group piece of the evening and brings with it an intense club-like energy. Choreographed by Ballet Night regulars EKLEIDO, the ensemble’s precise, sharp movements feature moments of voguing, injecting a modern dimension. It’s new and exciting, the pulsing heart of contemporary dance.
Calvin Richardson‘s interpretation of The Dying Swan, originally from Swan Lake, offers a fresh perspective. Danced by Denislon Almeida, breaking tradition as a male performer, his performance is sharp, angular, and captivating. The addition of Rebecca Hepplewhite’s live cello playing adds an extra layer of wonder.
The evening concludes with a stunning performance by Royal Ballet Principal dancers Vadim Muntahirov and Fumi Kaneko in the Apollo Pas de Deux, choreographed by George Balanchine. Watching these masters of their craft perform together exemplifies trust and artistry, and it’s always a privilege to experience Balanchine’s work, especially in such close proximity.
Ballet Nights Bound in Motion is a jubilant celebration of dance, showcasing both emerging talents and established stars from around the world, an evening truly rich in variety and excellence, with something to delight every audience member.
Artistic Director: Jamiel Devernay-Laurence
Ballet Nights runs events throughout the year. Further events can be found via the below link.
