The 53rd International Choreographers’ Showcase @ Venue 278, Spotlites

Dance-Forms Productions present a programme of nine very different pieces, racing through a mixed bag of styles: ‘somatic’, street dance-like, introspective, intricate and fast-paced, inventive and quirky.

The strongest pieces are generally the solos, all employing imaginative and distinctive – but highly effective soundtracks, and performers able to command the theatre and fully communicate the joy and exhilaration of movement. The choreography is not afraid to take risks, especially in Asslema/Beslema, Break-Brake-(br)Ache and And My Arms Shall Never Get Tired.

With more content than can be covered in a short review, there`s room to mention just two standouts. Ternion, a piece which alternates daily between male and female soloists and challenges our expectations of male/female dance roles. The afternoon I visited, male dancer, Brett Noble, gave a magnetic performance of the intricate, complex and lighting-paced piece. Very different in style is The Aftermath – a duet of two female dancers that is inventive, quirky, varied in pace, and memorable for both the music and dance.

A very mixed set - with a corresponding requirement for concentration from the audience - but a show that overall imparts zest and excitement, with choreography ranging from thoughtful consideration to sheer dazzle. I expect everyone will have their own favourites – always excellent for post-show discussions.