The National Dance Company Wales brought a triple bill to The Place in London, offering a unique blend of sci-fi formations, a hazy summer waltz, and a wild Welsh folk dance. The performance, titled Surge, showcased the company's versatility and international appeal.
The evening opened with Faye Tan's Infinity Duet, featuring two dancers and a swinging sculpture. The airy guitar music created a warm, summery atmosphere, with the pendulum-like movement of the sculpture guiding the dancers. However, the piece remained grounded, avoiding the expected acrobatics.
Marcos Morau's Waltz (2023) followed, with dancers in skin-tight black glittering bodysuits and masks. The choreography drew comparisons to a sci-fi Busby Berkeley, with geometric formations and stop-start motions. While the novelty may have waned slightly, the piece was praised for its clarity and striking visual appeal.
The highlight of the evening was Osian Meilir's Mabon, inspired by the ancient Welsh stories of the Mabinogion. The score by harpist Cerys Hafana blended traditional music with electronic elements, creating an eerie, futuristic sound. Becky Davies' creature costumes, made from fur, feathers, and pearls, added to the otherworldly atmosphere. The dancers gradually shed their robes to reveal folk-inspired movements, jigging and whooping in ritual circles.
Despite some ambiguity in the narrative, Mabon was celebrated as a delightfully unique piece that honored Welsh heritage while pushing boundaries. The triple bill as a whole demonstrated the company's confidence and creativity, leaving a lasting impression on the London audience.
