Oxford Dance Writers

Hot on the heels of “Happy as Larry”, Oxford hosts another out-of-London dance premiere.  Tickets are going fast for this glamorous production so get your booking in soon…

Strictly Gershwin

“…an all-singing, all-dancing show set to the unbeatable George and Ira (Gershwin)” (Evening Standard)

100 superb artists including dancers, singers and a live jazz orchestra

Choreography and Direction: Derek Deane

Words and Music: George and Ira Gershwin

Following a sell-out season in London, English National Ballet takes its acclaimed production of Strictly Gershwin to the New Theatre Oxford for its first ever UK Tour.

Strictly Gershwin is a dazzling celebration of George Gershwin and the razzmatazz of the big band era and Hollywood musicals.  Gershwin’s sassy tunes combine with Derek Deane’s sensational choreography to conjure up the silver screen genius and glamour of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.

English National Ballet’s dancers will tap, twirl and glide their way through a  dance journey from ballet to tap, ballroom to jazz, building to a breathtaking finale.

Featuring giant screen projections, special guest stars and a live jazz orchestra playing a host of Gershwin favourites, Strictly Gershwin is guaranteed to get your toes tapping and your spirits soaring!

Performances:

Thursday 6th October at 2.00pm (schools matinee) and 7.30pm

Friday 7th October at 7.30pm

Saturday 8th October at 2,30pm and 7.30pm

Sunday 9th October at 2.30pm

To book tickets call the Box Office on 0844 871 3020 or book online at http://www.newtheatreoxford.org.uk

For information about pre-performance talks and workshops visit http://www.ballet.org.uk/learning

An autumn season in which Oxford is visited by some exciting dance companies kicks off at the Playhouse this weekend:

Happy as Larry

Directed by Shaun Parker

UK Premiere

What makes us happy?

Happy as Larry is a playful and poignant new dance show, which investigates the elusive nature of human happiness. Created by award-winning Australian choreographer Shaun Parker and his talented company, this powerful performance combines an intoxicating mix of ballet, break-dance, roller-skating and highly physical contemporary dance.

The cast of characters maps nine personality types: The Perfectionist; the Giver; the Performer; the Tragic Romantic; the Observer; the Devil’s Advocate; the Optimist; the Boss; and the Mediator – all rich inspiration for Shaun Parker‘s insightful creativity. Set to a vibrant and varied score, the performers bring fun and danger to the fore in this innovative and moving show.

Age guideline:8+

OPINION:  Michelle Dickson, Artistic Director of Oxford Playhouse writes:

I can’t wait for this show! The Playhouse is hosting the UK premiere and it promises to be a great night in the theatre. If you like DV8, Jasmin Vardimon or Tanja Leidke’s Twelfth Floor, don’t miss this. If you’ve never seen contemporary dance before, this is the perfect fun-filled introduction.

Venue: Main Stage  |  Category: Drama contemporary  |  Running Time: : 75 mins no interval

Box Office 01865 305305
Oxford Playhouse, Beaumont Street, Oxford, UK, OX1 2LW

http://www.oxfordplayhouse.com