Dance Base Presents...Parallel/Parallels

Initially baffling and more than a little silly, Parallel/Parallels ceases to be an opaque, confusing spectacle once the underlying concept is grasped. That concept is—and I think I've got this right—that the cold language of metaphysical science and quantum mechanics can be explained through the medium of dance and physical theatre. As such, we learn, the chance matrix of human encounters and relationships are little more than this meta-philosophy at work.

This utterly absurd concept is expounded through stringently connected scenes interspersed with dance, spoken word and song. The latter proves particularly challenging as, unfortunately, none of the performers are able to sing in tune. The dancing, of the interpretative rather than rhythmic variety, is staccato bordering on aggressive, leaving the audience taken aback rather than entranced. Black slatted panels constitute the stage scenery, and are wheeled around the performers, visually riffing on ideas of perspective and reality in a way that, contrary to the rest of the performance, proves surprisingly effective.

The deluge of cod philosophy is relentless, and the performance, although atmospheric, lacks warmth and vitality. As the first half concludes with the elderly (but surprisingly spry) composer leading a psychedelic-folk jam session, the show reaches an altogether new low. When I want to watch a gnarled musician rock out, flanked by nubile, gyrating dancers, I'll head to one of Ronnie Wood's orgies.