Prodijig presents Footstorm,
Peacock Theatre,
London
Friday July 5, 2013
★★★
WHAT an 18 months it’s been for Irish dance troupe Prodijig.
Catapulted into the limelight as winners of last year’s Sky One TV show, Got To Dance they have since had the theatrical world fixed upon their debut stage show, Footstorm.
Having toured Britain and Ireland over the past three months, their jigging journey this month brought them to London as leader and choreographer Alan Kenefick continues his vision to revolutionise modern Irish dance.
Footstorm begins with a sci-fi movie-style voice looming over the speakers, introducing an over-complicated narrative of a journey through time that aims to add depth to the dance numbers.
Casting this aside, Prodijig don’t disappoint. Their co-ordination, execution and speed are astounding, and the routines flawless and enticing.
It’s the originality of the dances that is most admirable, the untraditional use of the upper body adding another dimension to the already astounding footwork.
Occasional shouts from the group draw an instant response from the crowd, as cheers and whistles reign down on them in return.
The energy both on stage and in the theatre is electric, and the passion driving every move is clear to see.
If there is a downside, however, then it’s the disappointingly predictable story woven into the routines.
A tale of good triumphing over evil and of lovers torn apart, it’s far too simplistic and simply drags and slows-down the pace and energy of the dance moves.
Most exciting though is the battles between the time travellers – the good guys – and the Mohans – the creatures – and this makes for some interesting and intricate choreography.
One thing to note, however, is that the performance is not for those with sensitive senses. There is heavy use of strobe lighting throughout and the music, whilst to be applauded for its original composition and rock-pop edge, was surprisingly loud.
For patient dance fans, however, this is a show not to be missed and the remarkably high standard of dancing is worth the grind of the intermittent storytelling.
Prodijig’s fresh spin on a traditional dance form will undoubtedly have its cynics, but they are certainly clear to their vision of breaking modern Irish dance through the barriers of popular culture and into a new era.
