Ballet Revolución

Playing at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre as part of their international tour, Cuban dance company Ballet Revolución is an eclectic mix of dance styles, pumping music, and loads of eye candy.

This show is revolutionary not for its political stance, but for its breakaway from traditional ballet, infusing it with hip-hop, funk, contemporary dance, and acrobatics. It’s not just a revolution, it’s a celebratory dance party.

The group of dynamic dancers were mesmerising as they showed off their athletic prowess, technical control, and toned bodies that just oozed sex appeal.

The choreography by Australian dancer and original Tap Dog star, Aaron Cash along with maker Roclan Gonzalez Chavez, was complemented by an amazingly talented group of musicians who unfortunately were hidden for so long I had to ask the question, “Why aren’t they showing the band?”

[pull_left]It’s not just a revolution, it’s a celebratory dance party[/pull_left]

The music was a mixture of epic classical pieces fused with hip-hop and latin beats, played by the eight-piece live band, and recorded tracks including more contemporary tunes with the likes of Ricky Martin, Usher, Shakira, Enrique Iglesias, J-Lo, Prince, Chris Brown and Beyonce. ‘Single Ladies’ was especially enjoyable.

Percussionist Luis Palacios Galvez on congas was a highlight of the night. He played so passionately that his headphones flew off mid solo; undeterred, he kept on playing. But it was Lianett Rodriguez Gonzalez who stole most of our attention. She reminded me of the dance version of PINK; hot, sassy, and in your face, you couldn’t help but be drawn to her.

The second half provided a little more variety with smaller ensemble pieces and slower numbers. The double-date pas de deux with the chairs was sensual and perhaps the most memorable piece from the show.

While the dancing was excellent, the athletically toned bodies sublime, and the band a-thumpin, there was no real thread to tie the pieces together, which perhaps would have given the work more gravitas. Having said that, the audience thoroughly enjoyed Ballet Revolución and gave the company a standing ovation.

Additional Australian Touring Dates are Follows:

Townsville: 12 July
Cairns: 13 July
Mackay: 14 July
Melbourne: 17-20 July
Adelaide: 23-27 July
Perth: 30 July – 3 August

For more information, see the Ballet Revolución website: www.balletrevolucion.com