The Paul Taylor Dance Company has returned to London after more than two decades, bringing a programme of athletic and joyful modern classics to the Linbury theatre. The late choreographer's work, spanning over 60 years until his death in 2018, is characterised by buoyant, bravura movement and a refreshing straightforwardness.
Brandenburgs, from 1988, set to two of Bach's concertos, is a whirlwind of leaping and spinning that leaves audiences feeling joyful. The dancers, in green Grecian-style dresses, evoke Olympic athletes or Apollo and his muses, with every step recognisable and musical. The piece feels like a postcard from a simpler, analogue age.
The programme also includes Robert Battle's Under the Rhythm, a tribute to his mother and African American jazz and modern dance. It features riotous Harlem dancefloor scenes, dancers in red tailcoats hamming to Ella Fitzgerald, and nods to Alvin Ailey and even Carlton from The Fresh Prince. Despite an undercurrent of pain and prejudice, the piece is pure virtuosity and showmanship.
Piazzolla Caldera (1997) offers a darker contrast, a tango-inspired piece with seriously smouldering looks and furrowed brows depicting Buenos Aires's seedy underworld. While the ecstasy can seem effortful, it remains easy to watch, as Taylor's dance always aims to entertain.
