Yorke Dance Project's latest production is a masterclass in subtlety and power. The company's latest show has arrived at the Linbury Theatre just in time for the new year, bringing with it a rich tapestry of reimagined choreography.
The evening begins with Amy Thake's stunning solo performance of Deep Song by Martha Graham. This 1937 masterpiece is an intense six minutes that will leave you breathless. The sheer intensity and control displayed by Thake is nothing short of breathtaking as she unleashes the raw emotion that lies within this powerful work. With her sole thrusting forth with implacable strength, Thake brings to life the very essence of Graham's stripped-to-the-core style.
But Yorke Dance Project isn't one to rest on its laurels; instead, it has crafted a programme that includes not only revivals of 20th-century gems but also two new premieres. One of these is Troubadour, Christopher Bruce's first new work in over a decade. This time around, however, Bruce channels his energy into Leonard Cohen's atmospheric songs, imbuing the evening with an air of sophistication and poise.
Bruce's choreography is always inventive, never settling for the obvious as he weaves together intricate rhythmic variations that seem to dance within the frame of a 4/4 beat. His craft shines through in every step, every movement a testament to his skill. This latest piece from Bruce is a welcome addition to Yorke Dance Project's repertoire.
Another promising newcomer on the scene is choreographer Liam Francis. His creation for Cast|X| – which uses fragments of film dialogue as its soundtrack – shows great promise, albeit in an amorphous and slightly uncertain way. Yet this vulnerability feels undeniably compelling, hinting at deeper emotional truths that warrant further exploration.
Perhaps the standout piece from tonight's programme is Lacrymosa by Robert Cohan, a work that was inspired by Mary losing her son Jesus to his calling. Having danced with Martha Graham, Cohan brought an understated yet profound artistry to this choreography, which has now been lovingly reimagined for Yorke Dance Project.
With its delicate yet powerful strokes, Lacrymosa speaks volumes without ever having to say a word – and it's here that the true mastery of Cohan shines through. The way Jonathan Goddard and Eileih Muir bring this work to life is nothing short of breathtaking, imbuing every movement with an air of raw emotion that makes you feel deeply moved.
As we wrap up tonight's show, one thing becomes crystal clear: Yorke Dance Project has once again set a high bar for itself.
The evening begins with Amy Thake's stunning solo performance of Deep Song by Martha Graham. This 1937 masterpiece is an intense six minutes that will leave you breathless. The sheer intensity and control displayed by Thake is nothing short of breathtaking as she unleashes the raw emotion that lies within this powerful work. With her sole thrusting forth with implacable strength, Thake brings to life the very essence of Graham's stripped-to-the-core style.
But Yorke Dance Project isn't one to rest on its laurels; instead, it has crafted a programme that includes not only revivals of 20th-century gems but also two new premieres. One of these is Troubadour, Christopher Bruce's first new work in over a decade. This time around, however, Bruce channels his energy into Leonard Cohen's atmospheric songs, imbuing the evening with an air of sophistication and poise.
Bruce's choreography is always inventive, never settling for the obvious as he weaves together intricate rhythmic variations that seem to dance within the frame of a 4/4 beat. His craft shines through in every step, every movement a testament to his skill. This latest piece from Bruce is a welcome addition to Yorke Dance Project's repertoire.
Another promising newcomer on the scene is choreographer Liam Francis. His creation for Cast|X| – which uses fragments of film dialogue as its soundtrack – shows great promise, albeit in an amorphous and slightly uncertain way. Yet this vulnerability feels undeniably compelling, hinting at deeper emotional truths that warrant further exploration.
Perhaps the standout piece from tonight's programme is Lacrymosa by Robert Cohan, a work that was inspired by Mary losing her son Jesus to his calling. Having danced with Martha Graham, Cohan brought an understated yet profound artistry to this choreography, which has now been lovingly reimagined for Yorke Dance Project.
With its delicate yet powerful strokes, Lacrymosa speaks volumes without ever having to say a word – and it's here that the true mastery of Cohan shines through. The way Jonathan Goddard and Eileih Muir bring this work to life is nothing short of breathtaking, imbuing every movement with an air of raw emotion that makes you feel deeply moved.
As we wrap up tonight's show, one thing becomes crystal clear: Yorke Dance Project has once again set a high bar for itself.