Review: The BalletBoyz- Deluxe at The Grand Theatre Blackpool

Last Night we were privileged to attend The BalletBoyz: Deluxe at The Grand Theatre Blackpool. Visiting Blackpool for one night only the show was a prime example of the varied repertoire of shows the Grand Theatre continues to deliver.

Over the last 20 years BalletBoyz have made 38 pieces of new work for the stage, won 13 international awards, and collaborated with 25 choreographers and there is no doubt that deluxe fuses beautiful dance with original music in the company’s unique and unmistakable style.

As the curtains rise, the audience greeted by a screen which plays a short introduction to the group and the upcoming piece Bradley 4:18 including producer Maxine Doyle’s take on the piece and an insight into what is to come. The clever use of backstage video footage and interviews in this show adds a welcomed insight into the creative process behind Deluxe.

 As the performance starts in gritty lighting the raw, sexy yet extremely dark reputation of the different sides of the character Bradley and the conflicting emotional battles he faces definitely captures the audience. The gritty, thought provoking style of this piece may not be everyone’s taste however there is no doubt that Bradley 4:18 demonstrates the technical ability of the BalletBoyz crew as well as Doyle’s creative vision.

The second piece of the night is the beautiful ‘Ripple’ Choreographed by Chinese choreographer Xie Xin. In the short video introduction Xin explains the challenge she has faced while working with a sole group of male dancers, however it is obvious when the piece starts that they overcome these initial challenges as the delicate movements of gentle waves, spiralling whirlpools all come together perfectly to reflect the natural movements of the ocean in a truly mesmerising way.

For their 20th Anniversary show Deluxe the BalletBoyz definitely take some creative risks but all in all the show delivers fresh new ideas, incredible technical ability and beautiful storytelling and we can’t wait to see what they do next!  

Click here to book tickets for the rest of the Deluxe Tour

Click here to browse The Grand Theatre Blackpool's Programme