The National Ballet of Canada presents Frontiers at Sadler’s Wells

Choreographers of Canada
Pite / Kudelka / Portner
Sadler’s Wells Theatre, EC1R 4TN
Wednesday 2 – Sunday 6 October 2024
Tickets: £15 – £85
Ticket Office: 020 7863 8000 or www.sadlerswells.com

Georgia Wallace, Artspod Trinity Laban Conservatoire Graduate

Catching the tube across London to Angel I was excited to be invited to watch the opening night of the National Ballet of Canada their first time performing at Sadler’s Wells since 2013. On arrival, the atmosphere was lively and exciting and we made our way to the first circle with a view of the live orchestra positioned and ready in front of the stage and the curtain drawn behind them.The opening performance of the triple bill, Passion, was set in a classical scene, but I was drawn to the two dancers dressed in casual clothing – an unexpected contrast. This combined with the contemporary influenced movement created intrigue, displaying a beautiful arrangement throughout the performance accompanied by Beethoven’s Concerto for Piano in D Op. 61a.

Islands was the second performance, choreographed by Emma Portner, a captivating duet between two females. The choreography was innovative and meaningful playing with connection through physical touch and costume design. The minimal colour palette created through wardrobe and lighting was impactful and supported the musicality and intention of the dancers. Accompanied by hip hop inspired music from contemporary artists as well as original music by Forest Swords.

The final performance of the evening, Angels’ Atlas, was a striking display of dynamic choreography paired with incredible stage design. The large cast performed inspirational movement full of effort and purpose, amplified through the minimal two-tone costumes, highlighting the detail of the choreographic choices. Choreographed by Crystal Pite and accompanied by original music by Owen Belton and choral pieces by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Morten Lauridsen.

The appreciative audience applauded the company with a standing ovation. I would thoroughly recommend a visit to Sadlers Wells to watch The National Ballet of Canada before the run closes on Saturday 6th October.

The National Ballet of Canada have an international company cast.

Principals

Christopher Gerty Born: Watford, England, Spencer Hack Born: Toledo, Ohio, Koto Ishihara Born: Nagoya, Japan, Harrison James Born: Paraparaumu, New Zealand, Tirion Law Born: Hong Kong, China, Svetlana Lunkina Born: Moscow, Russia, McGee Maddox Born: Spartanburg, South Carolina, Siphesihle November Born: Zolani, South Africa, Heather Ogden Born: Toronto, Ontario, Genevieve Penn Nabity Born: Casco, Michigan, Ben Rudisin Born: Woodbridge, Virginia