'Manon' reviews 'Gloria' reviews Cooper in reviews Wildor in reviews Mandy reviews

This wonderful evening, produced by Adam Cooper and Iain Webb, was a collection of short pieces which were introduced by Stephen Wicks. Adam and Sarah were joined by Matthew Hart, Shi-Ning Lui, Richard Curto, Elisa Celis, Lisa Probert and Sarah McIlroy First was the lively Opening from Elite Syncopations, with the whole cast in high spirits. Following this… Manon, the Drunk Solo and Pas de Deux. Adam Cooper was hilarious as the inebriated Lescaut, trying with perfect mis-timing to partner Sarah McIlroy! Matthew Hart then gave a ' fizzing' solo from Danses Concertantes, dancing with lithe, fluid movements.

The Tango from Isadora was elegantly danced by AC and SW. Another highlight next…Shi-Ning Lui as the muscle-y Strong Man dancing with Sarah McIlroy in 'Side Show '. His performance was wonderful technically and also very amusing. Then a change of mood..' Sea of Troubles ' based on Shakespeares Hamlet, was dark and disturbing.

After the 2nd interval came a short excerpt from Gloria. In Isadora Death of the Children solos Sarah Wildor evoked such pain and torment as she poured out her soul a very moving work and highly memorable Next were Summer pas de deux and Requiem solo , dedicated to John Crancko and a solo from The Prince of the Pagodas. The solemn mood continued with Manon Act III The death scene danced beautifully by AC and SW and ending with a silent howl of despair from Lescaut. Finally , a cheerful finale from Elite Syncopations. The trip to Exeter was certainly worth it , and as this is the second year that AC & friends have performed at the Northcott, it may be worthwhile calling 01392-213161 Festival Box Office to get your name on next years mailing list.