Something certainly outside of the box – when the worlds of hip-hop and classical music meet. Here, was fresh and creative heartbeat beneath the musical genius of the original composer.
This might be regarded as somewhat of a premiere, maybe initially making us think ‘not sure’. But this evening turned out into a way of presenting both contemporary dance – and classical music – in ways which were exciting and fresh.
We attended to some of the most well-known works of the age – that timeless legacy of Bach that will endure throughout the ages. But brought into reality was that which seemed to be impossible. Tapping into the composer’s rhymical literacy and intelligence, we ventured on a journey to collaborate with the talent of a more present age – the dance so inspired – and how the movements’ harmony could yet ignite the contemporary too.
After the formal and familiar Bach introduction, we were soon introduced to tonight’s star performers – there was a bit of tension in the air as the dance began, as many seemed struck by the disparity. But the incongruity dissolved once you relaxed more into the mood. The discipline of the dance was brilliantly executed, and any unease was soon to dissipate.
I do wonder what Bach would have made of it all. But this was for today’s audience – and the dancers’ silent but energetic movement captured and captivated our attention throughout. It would be hard to imagine a more inventive combination, embodying the best of both the old and the new – and it worked! We saw the past revealed via a new and inspirational layer, and the more you became immersed, the more natural it seemed to feel.
There were moments in this performance where the musicians shone brightly, and where the dancers excelled – however, the points when both came together constituted the best of both worlds. By the time of the finale, it was all so natural, and almost second nature.
The recital finished at 8.40pm.
Breaking Bach, Wednesday 20th August, Usher Hall