• Ref: P2248-19-08AW

• Ref: P2245-19-08AW

• Ref: P2419-19-08AW

Multiplicity: Sidmouth Ballet School
& East Devon Dance

REPORT: PAUL CROMPTON

PICTURES BY ALEX WALTON

TO ORDER PICTURES CLICK HERE>>

FIRST night energy bustled through the packed Manor Pavilion Theatre for Sidmouth Ballet School and East Devon Dance’s production of Multiplicity, making it difficult to know who was more nervous. Was it the performers who greeted the audience at the door, the families or me – a newcomer to dance recitals?

Then, before the curtain opened, the audience was warmed up with their very own dance rehearsal, albeit seated, preparing them for their participation in the Hairspray Medley, the first half’s finale.

It was a half that had grace, humour and unfortunately for brave Saffie Worwood, 14, from Ottery St Mary, pain during Parisian Mazurka in which she dislocated her knee.

The boy’s street jazz interpretation of Mission Impossible, with Tom Cruise effigy falling from the rafters, and the ballet recital of Carmen were among the most memorable routines.

However, along with the costumes, which were impeccable throughout the show, the highlight of a brilliant first half was the finale, performed with the kind of high camp that puts smiles on faces.

With a 50s routine, complete with costumes, wigs and various dance styles, it had the energy, spectacle and fun of watching Grease for the first time.

It seemed to be a favourite of the audience too if the interval buzz was anything to go by, but maybe that was because of the great success of our own participation.

The second half continued with a more contemporary musical selection with music from Christina Aguilera and Duffy but for me the highlight was the Pirates of the Caribbean ballet.

A spectacle of music, costume and choreography colliding in unison to make even the uninitiated dance spectator feel he knew his turn and pike from his jazz hands.

And if I had one criticism it would be that the second half curtain closed too quickly on a thoroughly enjoyable night.

• Ref: P2230-19-08AW	• Ref: P2223-19-08AW
• Ref: P2311-19-08AW	• Ref: P2314-19-08AW
• Ref: P2385-19-08AW	• Ref: P2343-19-08AW
• Ref: P2432-19-08AW	• Ref: P2431-19-08AW
• Ref: P2259-19-08AW	• Ref: P2415-19-08AW
• Ref: P2344-19-08AW	• Ref: P2380-19-08AW

• Ref: P2246-19-08AW	• Ref: P2254-19-08AW	• Ref: P2354-19-08AW
• Ref: P2312-19-08AW	• Ref: P2280-19-08AW	• Ref: P2420-19-08AW
• Ref: P2273-19-08AW	• Ref: P2260-19-08AW	• Ref: P2268-19-08AW
• Ref: P2349-19-08AW	• Ref: P2308-19-08AW	• Ref: P2408-19-08AW
• Ref: P2319-19-08AW	• Ref: P2421-19-08AW	• Ref: P2388-19-08AW

Back to photo archive >>