Some contemporary dance productions can feel exclusive, requiring insider knowledge to appreciate. Yukiko Masui's Ronin, currently showing at The Place in London, defies this notion entirely. This audiovisually immersive, anime-inspired dance piece is designed to be accessible, with an age recommendation of 10+, making it perfect for families, un-arty relatives, and those new to dance. It's a show that welcomes everyone without sacrificing depth or style.
An Immersive Journey Through Digital Worlds
The stage of Ronin is physically sparse but audiovisually rich, transforming into a dynamic canvas. All three walls and the floor serve as screens for Barret Hodgson's immersive digital animations. The journey begins with downpours of rain and uprisings of bubbles, then traverses surreal landscapes where neon flowers bloom, fish swim through forests, and pathways pixellate. Gyrating white cubes wheel through geometric space, and a cold moon merges with a boiling sun, creating a disorienting yet captivating universe.
In tandem, Ruth Chan's soundscore evolves from the gentle patter of rain on roofs to synthed-up noise and drum-driven beats. One memorable scene features a sudden silence that feels loud, heightening the tension. This multimedia approach sets the stage for a metaphysical quest, with Cher Nicolette Ho as the main character, seen in ritual preparation for her journey.
Fluid Choreography and Exhilarating Swordplay
As Ho ventures into this disorienting world, she encounters two other seekers, Nathan Bartman and Jacob Lang. Their roles fluctuate between adversary, assistant, and companion, adding layers of intrigue. While the plot and setting can be discombobulating, the choreography remains clean and pacy, featuring fights, face-offs, stalking, chasing, tense advances, and nimble tumbles.
The swordplay is particularly striking, with dancers' torques and lunges amplified by the long arcs of their swords as they take swipes out of the air. Even without swords, the style leaves its imprint: moves are sharp-edged, simultaneously fluid and stabbing, sometimes freeze-framed, and always poised. This creates an exhilarating effect that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
A Riveting Pivot and Diffused Focus
The first act concludes with a powerful image of Lang lunging to skewer Ho's flung-back body while Bartman holds him back. The second act returns to this tableau via a different route, offering another take on the same scene, serving as a riveting pivot-point. However, the rest of the act diffuses this focus, bounding off through more assorted quantum leaps.
Despite this, the show's strengths lie in its stylishly fluid movement and thrilling confrontations. It poses a compelling question: would you prefer a story that coheres perfectly, or the slayage of three dashing swordspeople slashing away at their simulated universe? Ronin opts for the latter, delivering a visually stunning and kinetically charged experience.
Ronin is touring until 23 May, offering audiences across the UK a chance to witness this unique blend of dance, anime, and swordplay. Whether you're a dance aficionado or a newcomer, this production promises an engaging and exhilarating night out.
