Jazz Conversations, BOP Jazz Theatre Company Review
Photo by Punjab2000
Written by Bronagh for Theatre and Tonic.
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own.
Jazz Conversations is the latest show presented by BOP Jazz Theatre Company, promising an evening of creativity and expression. Jazz is such a well loved art form, a genre representing culture and experiences. Jazz Conversations is no exception. This is a show full of sizzling dance routines taking inspiration from ballet and contemporary dance, and a variety of music styles some of which are original, and some from the back catalogue of Miles Davis.
Jazz Conversations is a ninety-minute show, the first half is entitled ‘Footprints of Jazz’. This first half is full to the brim of spirit and expression, opening with a young group of performers from guest performers, Impact Dance. This was an extremely impressive opening, with a hip-hop vibe and showcasing the talent of the company. This certainly sets the scene for the rest of the evening’s segments, choreographed by the wonderful Dolly Henry MBE and performed by BOP dancers. The five segments that follow all draw inspiration from different landscapes, and all felt very strong and powerful while being performed. The atmosphere was electric as these very talented, very impactful performers kept the audience engaged and unable to keep their eyes off the stage.
Act Two is entitled ‘Touches of Miles’ which pays homage to the music of Miles Davis and takes the audience through moments of his life. The live band are brilliant, playing music from Davis’ repertoire, some bouncier than others but all wonderful the hear. We also hear narrations from Davis’ career using interviews with the man himself. This section also showcases more of the talent of the BOP dancers in a truly unforgettable and energetic performance.
A particular favourite dancer of mine is Nafisah Baba, a new addition to the BOP company already with an impressive CV. Baba does feature heavily in both halves of Jazz Conversations, and it is truly nearly impossible to take your eyes off her. I won’t pretend I have a huge wealth of knowledge when it comes to any genre of dancing, both in reviewing and most certainly not in performing, but watching Baba really made me understand what it is to tell a story through dance, and how much impact dance can have in storytelling. Tapestry of Life towards the end of ‘Footprints of Jazz’ and performed by Baba was a show stealer for me.
Jazz Conversations is a fusion of dance and music, two important pillars in storytelling. I’ve already confessed to not being too experienced when it comes to dance, but I will say that I know my stuff when it comes to music. The music we hear comes from all corners of the world and moments in time, and of course includes all types of music from Miles Davis performed by the Jazz ensemble I love all types of music, and the music of Jazz Conversations really itched an itch in my brain, all so satisfying and gorgeous to listen to.
I can’t find any fault in Jazz Conversations, nothing to critique at all. I was truly enchanted and didn’t take my eyes off the stage for one moment. This is the second dance show I have seen the date, and certainly will not be my last. BOP are a company to keep your eyes peeled for, I promise you will not regret buying tickets to their shows. A huge bravo to all involved in this beautiful show.
At The Place until 21 Sept 2024.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
