Companies formed and led by a single figure - such as those of Martha Graham and Merce Cunningham - often loose their drive when the leading figure passes away. The material is still vital and the dancers just as talented, but without the guidance of their founder they can seem less inspired. This is how the Antonio Gades company seemed performing Fuenteovejuna on its latest visit to Sadler’s Well. The troupe was formed and led by the near-legendary dancer-choreographer Gades (1936-2004), best known for the film version of his Carmen (1983), who made Fuenteovejuna in 1994, and toured it extensively in the 1990s.
Based on Lope de Vega’s eponymous play, Fuenteovejuna is set in the 15th century and tells the story of the townsfolk of a village of the same name. The villagers rise us against the tyrant Comendador (Minguel Angel Rojas) who rules the area with cruelty, as well as molesting the heroine Laurencia (Cristina Carnero) whose sweetheart Frondoso (Angel Gil) is forced to watch, while her father Alcalde (Jose Carmona) is humiliated.
The cast all danced ably, especially Cristina Carnero and Angel Gil as the lead pair, with their duets showing keenly felt emotion. Minguel Angel Rojas and Jose Carmona were fine character dancers, particularly the tableaux scenes, while the troupe evoked gentle country folk until they are provoked. Also good were the sets and costumes, and the live drummers and singers.
However, the performance felt over-long and without dramatic energy or direction. Indeed, much of it was unclear, and without the programme note you wouldn’t have followed the plot.
Production information can change over the run of the show.
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