Dorrance Dance's 'The Center Will Not Hold' Showcases Diverse US Styles at Sadler's Wells
In a vibrant display of American dance heritage, Michelle Dorrance's production The Center Will Not Hold has taken the stage at Sadler's Wells in London, offering a unique fusion of traditional, street, and club styles. Unlike previous US tap stars like Savion Glover, who focused on solo virtuosity, Dorrance emphasises collaboration and community, creating a dynamic conversation between various dance forms and artists.
A Collaborative Effort with Stellar Talent
Co-created with choreographer and B-girl Ephrat Asherie, the show features an exceptional cast that includes Charles Riley, known as Lil Buck, a pioneer of Memphis Jookin'. Riley gained viral fame for his duet with cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and his performance here involves mesmerising glides on the tips of his trainer-toes, reminiscent of magnetic levitation trains. The production also highlights 22-year-old Caleb Lawrence Jackson, who blends tap and Chicago footwork with rapid, blurring leg movements, and Tomoe "Beasty" Carr, whose hip-hop, house, and waacking skills make her moves appear like unpredictable lightning strikes.
Beyond Tap: A Rich Tapestry of Dance Forms
The Center Will Not Hold is not merely a tap exhibition; it draws from a wide array of styles rooted in Black street and club culture. These include:
- Detroit jit with its intricate footwork
- Waacking and jookin'
- Elements of swing dance
Live percussion by John Angeles, using electric drum pads, adds an immersive layer to the performance, placing rhythm at the heart of the experience.
A Deliberately Low-Key Approach
Despite the explosive talent on display, the show maintains a subdued atmosphere with a shadowy stage and a simmering musical score that subtly engages the audience. Technical brilliance is revealed in solos and duos, with Dorrance's taps producing mellow, fluttering sounds due to careful microphone and floor choices. This decision avoids flashy showboating, instead focusing on showcasing the evolution of dance forms and the compelling abilities of the performers.
The production underscores Dorrance's philosophy of dance as a communal and evolving art, making it a must-see for enthusiasts of contemporary and street dance.
