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Scottish Ballet 40th Anniversary Tour

Published Friday 2 October 2009 at 11:40 by Gavin Roebuck

Marking the 40th anniversary of Scottish Ballet, this triple bill shows the versatile range of the company. In Balanchine’s Rubies, dancers adorned in Karinska’s dazzling bejewelled costumes perform to the angular, jazz-tinged music of Igor Stravinsky. Sophie Martin, with a polished technique, sparkles and is well partnered by Adam Blyde.

A new addition to the repertoire is William Forsythe’s Work Within Work to the slow-building arch of Berio’s Duetti for two violins. With graceful and winding upper body movements that then branch out with increasing complexity, the choreography combines classical discipline with experimental playfulness. Especially beautiful, with elongated limbs, are Claire Robertson and Eve Mutso.

Making its London premiere is Krzysztof Pastor’s In Light and Shadow. Beginning with a delicate, reflective well choreographed duet to the Aria from Bach’s Goldberg Variations, the piece twists and turns into a rich tapestry of explosive solos, duets and ensemble work, with quick-flowing contemporary lines and sculpture-like poses that flirt with the musicality.

The company has grown to have both style and athleticism, but show no work by a Scottish, still less British, choreographer. Nor is this a real celebratory programme that leaves one dancing on air on the way home - but perhaps London audiences are spoilt by having so many great international companies visiting.

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