Review: Rhythm Riot, Sadler’s Wells

English National Ballet’s Artistic Director Aaron S. Watkin presents Rhythm Riot at Sadler’s Wells: a trio of ballets encompassing a modern classic and two new works. Accompanied by a full orchestra courtesy of the English National Ballet Philharmonic, it is a wonderful explosion of energy, nuance, joy and physicality. Not to mention talent.

The thread that connects the three very different pieces is that of rhythm and how that moves us in all aspects of our lives. Each piece introduces a very different rhythm to the audience, showcasing a mix of vibrant cultures, energy and styles. All accompanied by the extraordinary talent of the orchestra, where the voice of individual instruments, particularly in strings and brass, becomes as much a character of the piece as the leading dancers, and the thud of the drum beat is an integral part of the movement. 

Symphony in Three Movements is the only piece that has been performed previously.  Choreographer Balanchine met composer and fellow Russian Stravinsky in 1925, which was the beginning of a lifelong partnership, and this creation was his last tribute to his great friend and mentor. One of what is known as his “leotard ballets”, the spectator is instantly struck by the number of dancers on stage (32) and their stripped-back look: think leotards and ponytails, rather than traditional tutus and buns. Their timing is exemplary, with five soloist couples and three principal couples all dancing together but at different times. It is quite possible they are all furiously counting under their breath, but their energy and drive are astonishing. Choreographed in 1972, it is over 50 years old but feels fiercely relevant given its collective athleticism and shared energy.

After a short break, the audience reconvenes for Los Angeles-based choreographer Micaela Taylor’s Bow Out: a contemporary ballet inspired by the renowned tap in Jumpin Jive from the Nicholas Brothers, a short clip of which is shown during the dance. Instantly eye-catching, the dancers wear identical, performance-appropriate tuxedos, and with the women’s hair tied back in tight buns at the nape of their necks, it is almost impossible to differentiate the sexes. Taylor’s signature hip-hop and jazz ooze energy, versatility, and humour, forming a very contemporary piece. The staging uses twin staircases inspired by old Hollywood cinema and the geometric symmetry of the 1920s and 30s Art Deco movement. It is breathtaking to watch, particularly in the moments where humorous, breathtaking acrobatics are used. The orchestra once again defies genre classification as classical strings mix with jazz cymbals, horns, and drums to resonate soundly throughout the theatre.

And as if that weren’t enough, the third and final piece of the evening is performed after a short break. Auguries of Innocence, choreographed by Korean Jae Man Joo, is in complete contrast to anything the audience has seen previously in this ensemble. Inspired by William Blake’s poem, this ballet is a powerful rebuke to the harm humankind inflicts on nature: a reckoning with the corruption we have spread as a species, and a yearning for purity and harmony. This is Joo’s first commission for a major UK ballet company and blends classical ballet, contemporary movement, and Korean traditional dance influences. Its fluidity suggests contemporary dance, but the breath control and expressiveness in the upper body are very Korean. It’s intricate with sudden contrasts. And beautiful.

The whole evening is a joy to behold: Three very different pieces each showcasing excellence and imagination, all held together by the very best of a live orchestra.

Artistic Director: Aaron S. Watkin
Music performed by English National Ballet Philharmonic
Music Director and Conductor: Maria Seletskaja
Orchestra Leader: Mathew Scrivener

Symphony in Three Movements: 
Choreography: George Balanchine
Music: Igor Stravinsky performed by arrangement with Chester Music Ltd
Costume Design: Karinska
Lighting Design: Ronald Bates, reproduced by Pip Walsh
Guest Repetiteur: Ben Huys

Bow Out
Choreography: Micaela Taylor
Music: Philip Patrick Harper Bucknor aka Tru
Tap Dancer (recording): Scott Kelley Thomas
Set & Costume Design: Candice Mac
Lighting Design: Jessica Hung Han Yun

Auguries of Innocence
Choreography: Jae Man Joo
Music: Pëteris Vasks performed by arrangement with Schott Music Ltd
Beopgogongyang drum music (recording): Venerable Gogeum Sunim
Set & Costume Design: Thomas Mika
Lighting Design: Mark Henderson
Assistant to the Choreographer: Addison Ector

Rhythm Riot plays at Sadler’s Wells until Saturday 3 October