Review: NDT2 Newcastle Theatre Royal

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A Real Treat at the Theatre Royal

Nederlands Dans Theater 2

Newcastle Theatre Royal

Until Wednesday 27^th April 2016

Photo: Johan Persson

Nederlands Dans Theater formed the Nederlands Dans Theater 2 as its junior division for dancers aged 18-23 in 1978. This tour is the sixth time that Dance Consortium have brought this fabulously talented company of dancers for a tour of the UK.

The production consists of 4 contrasting pieces that have a different feel, but they are all tightly choreographed and have a clever light sided aspect to them too.

Photo: Johan Persson

Johan Inger was the choreographer for the opening I New Then. It starts with 2 male dancers with mirror each others behaviour before fully developing into 9 dancers syncopating with the rhythmic patterns of the music . It worked really well as the opening piece as it felt really fresh and had a quite funny take on sexual liaisions. The use of Van Morrison’s music is an interesting choice as the lyrics reflect the action.

After the first interval 4 more dancers performed Edward Clug’s sultry  Mutual Comfort. Much of the action was close and intimate. The subtle, rapid, synchronised movements reflected the interdependence.

Photo: Johan Persson

After a short pause in the action three striking male dancers gave us a frenetic rendition of Hans van Manen’s Solo. The fast violin matches the often ballet-like moves. Like a whirlwind, the piece is soon over. The dancers, however left a lasting impression with their superb display.

Alexander Ekman’s Cactiis a fitting grand finale involving the whole company. It is a real treat with what one member of the audience afterwards described as “genius choreography”. The soundtrack of the piece matches some spoken word material with striving music. It starts with the whole company on podiums acting as a human orchestra in perfect harmony. Through the style of civic rituals the company show that dance is part of their collective DNA.

Photo: Johan Persson

Cacti has both marvellous, energetic movement and intriguing lighting design by Tom Visser. It is another production that is not afraid to have a sense of humour as it develops. The cacti put in an appearance too!

The four pieces are challenging for the audience. NDT2 are entertaining and are a great introduction to anyone new to dance performances. The skill and dexterity of the performers is coupled to flowing choreography. The perfect synchronisation is a result of hours of dedicated practice.

Photo: Johan Persson

NDT2 should be added to your “to do” list.  The audience were richly rewarded with a fabulously talented young company delivering a superb series of pieces.  

This review was written by Stephen Oliver for Jowheretogo PR (www.jowheretogo.com). Follow Jo on twitter @jowheretogo, Stephen @panic_c_button or like Jowheretogo on Facebook www.facebook.com/Jowheretogo.

Read the North East Theatre Guide preview: http://nomorepanicbutton.blogspot.co.uk/2016/03/preview-nederlands-dans-theater-at.html

Tickets:

NDT2 comes to Newcastle Theatre Royal from Tuesday 26^th – Wednesday 27^th April. Tickets are from £16 and can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21 21 (calls cost 7ppm plus your phone company’s access charge).