Phoenix Dance Theatre's Interplay: A Nostalgic Journey Through Hip-Hop and Classical Fusion
Phoenix Dance Theatre's latest production, Interplay, delivers a captivating mixed bill that masterfully draws on the vibrant energy of 1990s hip-hop culture, the timeless appeal of classical music, and a wave of 2000s nostalgia. Premiering at York Theatre Royal, this performance showcases a diverse range of choreographic styles, from playful duets to rhythmic explorations, all set against a backdrop of retro classics and spiritual undertones.
Suite Release: A Tribute to Dancefloor Spirituality
At the heart of Interplay is Suite Release, a new collaborative piece by director Marcus Jarrell Willis and choreographer Yusha-Marie Sorzano, both alumni of the renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. This work serves as an ode to the pure, unadulterated joy of the dancefloor, filtered through memories of 1990s hip-hop culture. The piece opens with the iconic voice of DJ Kool Herc, often hailed as the godfather of hip-hop, setting a nostalgic tone that invites audiences to rewind to a simpler era.
The choreography captures the essence of communal connection, depicting a clan of friends hanging out and vibing together through dance. The spiritual nature of this exercise is underscored by Labrinth's rendition of the hymn How Great Thou Art, which transitions seamlessly into a dynamic soundtrack featuring Buju Banton, A Tribe Called Quest, and the theme from the TV show A Different World. The loose, energetic movements draw inspiration from hip-hop, house, and dancehall, creating a vibrant tapestry of rhythm and emotion. Despite modern intrusions that complicate the narrative, the central message remains clear: a longing to return to the authentic, unfiltered experiences of the past.
Revivals and New Works: A Balanced Mixed Bill
Interplay also features two thoughtfully selected revivals that add depth to the program. Marcus Jarrell Willis's Next of Kin, originally created in 2013, presents a playful and sibling-like duet filled with antics that highlight the chemistry between dancers. Following this, Ed Myhill's Why Are People Clapping? from 2018 offers a highly enjoyable 13-minute piece based on Steve Reich's Clapping Music. This work cleverly visualizes rhythm with a sense of levity and glee, engaging audiences through its innovative use of sound and movement.
Adding to the mix is a new piece from the hotly tipped choreographic duo Travis Clausen-Knight and James Pett, now known as PCK Dance. Their duet, Small Talk, explores the dynamics of a troubled couple within a domestic setting, complete with a lamp, chair, and rug. The piece opens powerfully, with dancer Tony Polo portrayed as stranded on an island-like rug as darkness slowly lifts to the swelling sounds of Schubert. The soundtrack, which mines greats of classical music like Chopin, enriches the narrative by coloring the gaps in the setting and the characters' inner lives.
However, the use of Arvo Pärt's Spiegel im Spiegel, a piece notoriously overused in contemporary dance, injects a retro feel that transports viewers back to the early 2000s. The choreography, with its starched-straight limbs and mannered gestures, hints at influences from dance legends like Jiří Kylián and Mats Ek, reflecting styles popular decades ago. While Polo's rangy frame and elastic movements, along with his cool oversized suit, stand out, dancer Dorna Ashory's role feels more constrained, clad in a plain dress. Yet, in an era where Gen Z embraces millennium-era nostalgia, this retro aesthetic may be perfectly timed, highlighting culture's inevitable cycles rather than a mere rewind.
Tour Details and Cultural Impact
Interplay is set to tour following its run at Leeds Playhouse from March 31 to April 2, continuing until June 27. This production not only celebrates the rich heritage of dance but also sparks conversations about the cyclical nature of cultural trends. By blending hip-hop's raw energy with classical elegance, Phoenix Dance Theatre offers a unique experience that resonates with both nostalgia and contemporary relevance.
In summary, Interplay is a testament to the enduring power of dance to connect past and present. Through its mixed bill of new creations and revivals, it invites audiences to reflect on the evolution of artistic expression while enjoying a dynamic and spiritually uplifting performance.
