Play Without Words

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Thu 12 Jul 2012 - Sun 05 Aug 2012

Matthew Bourne's opened at Sadler's Wells on Thursday and I went along to today's (Saturday) matinee to see it. It was my first Bourne. I have heard nothing but great reviews regardless of which piece people refer to so it was with some excitement that I took my seat in the first circle.

The set was pretty impressive - cleverly bringing the streets of London into the theatre. It's all set in Sixties London - 1963 in fact. The atmosphere is taut and sensual from the start and the story of Anthony, his fiancee Glenda, his old friend Speight and the 'help' begins with a haunting trumpet solo.



Things opened with Anthony's inspection of a lush new pad, which was brilliantly portrayed. This was the moment I leaned forward, absolutely entranced, thinking to myself 'Who needs the words?'


There are many ensemble pieces and duets where protagonists wind seamlessly through the movement only for you to find yourself in the middle of another piece of 'action'. This is not a star turn for any one dancer but rather a celebration of synergy and moment by moment collaboration between the players.



In short, this is an extrordinary piece. It's daring and witty, slick and sexy, fast and slow and everything (it seems) in between. The one thing it isn't is safe.

is at Sadler's Wells until August 4th. You would be mad to miss this feast of the senses so book your ticket and make sure you fill those seats that stayed tragically empty at today's matinee.

#cultural_events
#theatre
#islington
#july
!date 12/07/2012 -- 05/08/2012
%wnlondon