‘when our technology moves beyond our control, generating intelligences far greater and … much faster than our own’
Words of James Lovelock and the inspiration for Wayne McGregor’s latest creation, specially made to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the National Youth Dance Company.
And what a celebration it was! I watched it with my granddaughter – the old and the young – both of us blown away by the extraordinary performance of physicality, athleticism, artistry, a feat of speed and power tempered by beauty, tenderness and superb technicality.
From the moment it began it was impossible not to be drawn in, even overwhelmed by the power and commitment of the dancers. The setting and visual effects were amazing, but slightly confusing and even distracting at times. However, the intriguing costume changes, building from mostly white and neutral tones to tiny touches of red, then larger amounts of red and blue, enhanced the fury and the passion of the dance which grew as the colours became more vibrant and all encompassing.
To spend an evening watching 30+ young people from all parts of the country dancing together and making such an impression with a truly incredible piece of work, while still only teenagers, makes me not only proud but deeply reassured about the future of dance and the treasures still to come.
