Rhythms With Soul @ New Town Theatre

Miguel Vargas’ presence is immensely powerful. The audience sits in enraptured silence as he stamps his way through this highly emotive work. His company exhibits finesse in the group numbers but never receives the same tangible enthusiasm as when Vargas is onstage. Evidently his own star vehicle, the spectators are only too willing to be mesmerised by this Venezuelan dance idol.

Rhythms With Soul exudes passion from the outset. A mournful cello establishes the mood as the band begins to play. The dancers move in striking synchronicity, hitting one position before melting into the next. The vocalists wail and the sense of sorrow is overwhelming. Flamenco’s traditionally inherent pain receives a contemporary outing and the performers commit wholeheartedly to its sentiment.

As the history of the style is loosely charted through the eyes of the Andalucían gypsy, Vargas justifies his reputation as an outstanding practitioner. In one section, a drum beat is created then layered with clapping before Vargas’ feet take on a further, more frantic, rhythm. The pace builds and his beats match the speed with incredible accuracy. He is more than capable of facing the music’s challenge.

There is an immeasurable intensity and drive displayed by the dancers and musicians as the performance reaches its triumphant end. Baring their souls, they dance until passionate applause is the audience’s only option.