Norwich Theatre Royal
> Norwich Theatre Royal
Historically, this modern dance company has been much more accessible than most and thus has found the audiences to support its extensive touring programme.
But the current triple bill has little of its customary appeal.
The first piece, Swamp, could be admired for its technical prowess but was difficult actually to enjoy. All minimalist movement and seemingly little coherency, it was, although I failed to grasp it, based on relationships - which I guess gives choreographer Michael Clark a free hand.
The middle piece, Dark Elegies, was more pleasing with plenty of folkloric dance, although it still lacked some of the company's usual sparkle.
Set to Mahler's Songs on the Death of Children, the company worked well together and also saw good solo spots.
The final piece was altogether more of an everyday crowd pleaser.
Set to Franz Lehar waltzes, Constant Speed lived up to its name as the dancers dashed around the stage - some failing to keep up with the frantic pace.
Inspired by Einstein's discoveries about time and space (you don't want to get any more complicated here, believe me), brightly coloured molecules flitted around to show contrasting speeds and use of space.
It's the work of the present artistic director Mark Baldwin so let's hope his influence sees the company returning to productions with a bit of oomph!
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