EMPIRE THEATRE, LIVERPOOL – TUESDAY 17TH MARCH 2026
REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN
5*****
On 30 May 2009, more than 20 million viewers across the UK watched the finale of Britain’s Got Talent, where the London-based street dance group Diversity captivated the nation and emerged victorious. They triumphed over the heavily favoured Susan Boyle with a performance so remarkable that Simon Cowell famously referred to it as “sheer and utter perfection.” Years later, after finally witnessing them live during their Soul tour at the Empire Theatre, it is evident that this description remains entirely fitting.
As I entered the performance, I was uncertain about what to expect. A two-hour live street dance show felt ambitious, and I questioned how the performers would maintain energy, creativity, and audience engagement throughout. What followed, however, was truly breathtaking. From the very first moment, Diversity demonstrated that they are not merely dancers; they are storytellers, innovators, and masters of the theatrical experience.
The show opens with a nostalgic theme focused on “Computers – now and then,” quickly engaging the audience with a playful and relatable atmosphere. A particularly memorable moment sees Ashley Banjo ‘playing’ Super Mario, as the troupe morphs into characters from the beloved game. This clever and vibrant scene, brimming with personality, is an immediate hit with the crowd and establishes the tone for the rest of the performance.
As the evening unfolds, the narrative develops in an unexpected and deeply poignant manner. Ashley Banjo, who takes on the roles of writer, director, and choreographer, has created a production that transcends mere dance. A chance meeting with a stranger named George prompts the performance to evolve into a thoughtful examination of humanity in an age increasingly influenced by technology and artificial intelligence. These reflective moments are presented through exquisitely filmed sequences projected above the stage, intricately interwoven with the live performance.
George’s discussions with Ashley are both poignant and thought-provoking, raising questions that resonate long after the show concludes: What is real? What holds meaning? What does it genuinely mean to be human? These segments infuse emotional weight and depth into the performance, balancing the dynamic choreography with sincerity and reflection.
The choreography is, as anticipated, outstanding. Diversity’s signature style—characterised by sharpness, creativity, and perfect synchronisation—is prominently showcased. The dancers operate as a cohesive unit, their movements intertwining, colliding, and transitioning fluidly between chaos and control. Each routine alternates between moments of explosive energy and intimate stillness, imbuing the performance with a sense of purpose and emotional depth.
Accompanied by breathtaking lighting, creative costumes, and remarkable set design, the show transforms into a complete sensory experience. Every detail is carefully considered, yet nothing seems excessive.
Without a doubt, this is a five-star performance. It captivates, motivates, and lingers in your thoughts long after the curtain descends. More than merely a dance performance, it serves as a poignant reminder to pause, reflect, and be present—an insight I continue to carry with me.