Image by Perth Festival
By Amsha Yogaraj
True to its description this ballet show brings together the themes of love, life, lust and loss to a lucky audience within an hour and a half. Encompassing three premieres, the show brought fresh performances to the world of dance and arts scene in Perth. Showcased in the Quarry Amphitheatre nestled in Bold Park, this was a unique ballet experience. Audience members are invited to enjoy the show with their own picnic or chairs available at the theatre.
The first piece by Brazilian-British choreographer Daniela Cardim, ‘Reset’ was danced to fusions of classical and electronic music, which made for a mesmerising performance with their synchronous movements and the use of lines in the choreography.
The second piece, ‘Truth’, featured music from world renowned music composer Ludovico Einaudi and brought about graceful movements based on choreography from principal dancer Matthew Lehmann. This piece was a beautiful pas de deux (duet) exploring perception, honesty, and trust and definitely a tear jerker.
Next was the world premiere of ‘Concerto Impertinente’, a piece choreographed during lockdown brought about elegant moves performed by the four strong female dancers.
Finishing off with ‘Take Me with You’, Radiohead’s music was danced to for an impressive performance. This piece captured the emotions, fears, dreams, aspirations, and societal pressures that we all have as well as the tribulations of romantic and non-romantic relationships, all through pointe work and rhythmic movement of the dancers.
The dancers of the Western Australian Ballet Company graced the stage prior to the show as the audience was privy to behind the scenes of the dancers warming up. The fact that the choreography for ‘Truth’ and‘Concerto Impernate’ were choreographed during lockdown for the CO-Vid lab (2020) season adds to the impressiveness of the dancers’ dedication and commitment.
Playing from the 11th of February to 5th of March, Ballet at The Quarry celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Western Australian Ballet, hence a ‘platinum’ show. Purchase a picnic hamper or bring your own food for a date or family night out to witness art amongst the night sky.