The Place – until 21st September 2024
Reviewed by Heather Chalkley
5*****
Founders of BOP Jazz Theatre Company, Dollie Henry MBE and Paul Jenkins have co-produced a phenomenal piece of storytelling through music and movement. In classic contemporary style, you are taken on a journey through the African roots of Jazz music and dance, plus the influences of other cultures. Throughout you can feel the African roots shining through. Then you are treated to a celebration of Miles Davis, his silky smooth playing and snatches of spoken word from interviews.
The scene is set by guest performers Impact Dance, a young hip hop group bending their talents to a new beat with a great result. This is Jazz dance for the future.
Jazz dance is unique in its sharp, staccato movement, combined with a fluid sensuality. This was exemplified by Nafisah Baba, with her strength in body and spirit penetrating every move. You can read the love and passion in Oraine Frater’s every facial expression and movement. The physical strength and skill of each dancer allows them to express their own personality through the choreography, by living in the moment. Together they create a picture that draws you into the story.
None of this would be possible without the smooth tones of the band. The speed of Jihad Darwish’s fingers as they glide across the double bass strings, provides that familiar deep energy that constantly bubbles up through the music. Elias Atkinson has a tall order to match Miles Davis and in fact does not attempt to. Beautiful in its execution, Atkinson makes the music his own. Led by Paul Jenkins, the band make it easy for the dancers to perform their craft. Together they are an art performance not to be missed.