Birmingham Repertory Theatre- 16th June 2026
Reviewed by Emma Millward
5*****
Celebrating their 25th anniversary, BalletBoyz brought Still Pointless to Birmingham Rep for an evening that was as thought-provoking as it was visually stunning. This retrospective production showcased a collection of works from across the company’s history. Created by former Royal Ballet Company dancers Michael Nunn and William Trevitt, BalletBoyz have continually evolved over the years. They have brought together 10 remarkable dancers and a collection of choreographers and musicians to create a diverse celebration of dance.
Contemporary dance can sometimes feel intimidating for audiences unfamiliar with the genre, but Still Pointless never felt inaccessible. Instead, it invited the audience in, allowing us to experience a wide range of emotions through movement alone. From moments of quiet reflection to sequences bursting with power and energy, every piece had an identity of its own while contributing to the evening’s wider celebration of the company. The show featured eight pieces across two acts, moving between moments that were powerful, poignant, playful, and deeply personal.
What stood out the most was the extraordinary commitment of the dancers. Whether performing as a tightly unified ensemble or in more intimate pairings, the dancers had a clear connection and chemistry. Every performer threw themselves wholeheartedly into the choreography, and they seemed to have endless energy. I was impressed to discover that some members of the company had taken part in the local Men’s Mental Health ‘Well Run Brum’ 5km run outside the theatre just an hour before the performance.
Atmospheric lighting by Andrew Ellis and a carefully crafted musical landscape enhanced the mood of each piece without ever overshadowing the performers. The focus remained firmly on the dancers and their ability to tell stories through movement.
The performances can become intense at times, especially during pieces like ‘Young Men’ choreographed by Ivan Perez, which explored the brutality of war and its impact on the men sent to fight. Benji Knapper was the heartbreaking focus of this piece, as he contorted his body into increasingly unnatural positions. While Young Men delivered some of the evening’s most emotionally devastating moments, other works showcased a more playful side, highlighting the company’s impressive versatility. Fiction, by Javier de Frutos, provided a more comedic end to the show. Set in a rehearsal space, the dancers used a ballet barre as a prop throughout. Narrated by Jim Carter and Imelda Staunton, parts of the narration and dance were repeated multiple times. Fiction really showcased the company’s synchronicity as they spun around the barre in perfect unison. This piece (and the show) culminated in a surprisingly feel-good moment as Kai Tomioka danced to Donna Summer’s song ‘Last Dance’.
By the final curtain, there was an undeniable sense of appreciation across the theatre as the audience took to their feet for a prolonged standing ovation. Inventive, exhilarating, and utterly mesmerising, Still Pointless proves that BalletBoyz remain masters of their craft.