The theatre was busy and the show opened with a curtain raiser from Fylde Coast Youth Dance Company and a piece named The Power Within. The company’s age range is between 11-19 years with pure dedication to developing high quality performance through a focus on choreography. The piece was fast-paced and engaging. The dancers work with local dance teacher and choreographer, Leanne Kirkham twice a month to further develop technique and skills. This particular piece was developed after a residency with Ace Dance and music from their current tour Mana.
The scene was then set for Out of His Skin. The stage was dark and atmospheric with interesting lighting design from James Mackenzie. As the performance began it was clear that there was a feeling of dystopia. Out of His Skin is set around the start of the banking crisis and the frustration born out of this time. It’s about finding release from a stressful existence ruled by money and taking risks to find freedom or other choices in life. The dances portrayed the frustration and used free running as way to release pent up aggression by throwing, leaping and jumping around the stage to music reminiscent of a heart beat.
The audience appreciate the show and the atmosphere was buzzing. Quite a young audience in attendance and everyone was glued to their seats. The dancers represented huge names such as Adidas, Puma, The MTV Awards and they have been regulars at The Edinburgh Fringe since 2004. We all felt we had been privy to a true contemporary dance experience.
The Grand Theatre has many more exciting dance projects unfolding over the next twelve months including opportunities to participate as musicians, film-makers and dancers. Creatives should keep a close eye on forthcoming attractions and take advantage of a beautiful and exciting venue and what it has to offer.
