In a vibrant celebration of American dance heritage, Michelle Dorrance's latest production, The Center Will Not Hold, has taken the stage at Sadler's Wells in London, offering a compelling fusion of traditional, street, and club styles. This innovative show, co-created with choreographer and B-girl Ephrat Asherie, diverges from the solo virtuosity of past US tap stars like Savion Glover, instead embracing a collegiate and collaborative spirit that highlights dance as a dynamic conversation across genres and generations.
A Stellar Cast of Dance Innovators
The production features an exceptional ensemble of dancers, each bringing unique expertise to the performance. Charles Riley, known as Lil Buck, a pioneer of Memphis Jookin', captivates audiences with his signature gliding movements on the tips of his trainer-toes, creating an illusion of hovering above the stage reminiscent of magnetic levitation trains. His viral fame, notably from a duet with cellist Yo-Yo Ma, adds to the show's allure.
Adding to the talent pool is 22-year-old Caleb Lawrence Jackson, whose mastery of tap and Chicago footwork results in a mesmerizing blur of leg movements, evoking the frenetic energy of a dancing plague. Tomoe "Beasty" Carr, specializing in hip-hop, house, and waacking, delivers entrancing performances with mercurial lightning-like agility, keeping viewers on edge with unpredictable strikes.
Blending Diverse Dance Forms
The Center Will Not Hold transcends being merely a tap show by incorporating a rich tapestry of styles rooted in Black street and club culture. The production weaves together elements such as the intricate footwork of Detroit jit and even some swing, all underscored by live percussion from John Angeles. Angeles, with electric drum pads slung over his shoulders, immerses himself in the action, enhancing the rhythmic depth of the performance.
A Deliberately Understated Approach
Despite the explosive talent on display, the show adopts a deliberately low-key aesthetic. A shadowy stage, a simmering musical score, and subtle rhythms that gradually seep into the audience's consciousness create an intimate atmosphere. In solos and duos, technical brilliance flares momentarily before receding, emphasizing restraint over flashiness.
This understated quality extends to the sound design, with Dorrance's taps rendered mellow and fluttering, a conscious choice in microphone setup and flooring that avoids sharp, bright tones. The focus shifts from showboating to showcasing, highlighting both the evolution of dance forms and the compelling artistry of the performers.
Reflections on Dance as Community
Dorrance's collaborative ethos shines through, reflecting her recent stage appearance with ballet star Tiler Peck and reinforcing dance as a communal and conversational art. The Center Will Not Hold not only entertains but also educates, offering a window into the diverse and evolving landscape of American dance, making it a must-see for enthusiasts and newcomers alike at Sadler's Wells.
