Oxford New Theatre – 23rd November 2023 and on tour until March 2023
Reviewed by Marcia Spiers
4****
Wow what an experience! To be honest, I was not sure whether I would enjoy this type of show, but I decided to take myself out of my comfort zone and go for it! This show was the last one of 2023 to a packed audience who were extremely supportive and enthusiastic.
You can certainly see why this dance troupe has been so successful. They are amazing dancers and have so much energy it is infectious. What was more intriguing was the creative storyline that sits behind this show focusing on the dreams of a young boy and his struggle to make them a reality. The creative skills of Ashley Banjo are truly inspiring, and the story is one that could resonate with many young people across the UK today.
There were very clever usage of props including a speeding car (my favorite), revolving doors, a toy box, and a hospital bed. There were amazing light shows and flashbacks, interesting sound effects and a two-tier stage. The costume changes were well executed and at two points in the performance it was raining heavily on the stage. I did wonder how an earth they all dried off so quickly! My only slight criticism if I had one was that sometimes I could not hear the narration above the music (but that could be my hearing!)
What is significant here is that the range of talent is truly diverse, and I expect that each of those dancers have their own personal story to tell. In addition, the shows are supporting the anti-poverty charity the Trussell Trust, which provides emergency food and support to people locked in poverty and campaigns for change to end the need for food banks in the UK.
The audience could bring along food donations to the shows, where there will be collection points across the venue each night. There were also collection buckets for any cash donations.
This 66 date tour comes to end in March, if you can get to one of the dates in the New Year you will not be disappointed, and it will make you feel like you want to dance!