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Beats on Pointe

 
Lisa Simonis Review by Lisa Simonis 4 Published: 8 Aug 2024 Assembly George Square Show Dates: 7 Aug 2024-26 Aug 2024

The fusion of ballet and hip-hop has long fascinated audiences since it was popularised by films like Step Up. Grace and swag meet in Beats on Pointe, offering you the opportunity to experience this unique fusion up close and personal. It is a fun show that everyone can enjoy.

This crew will have you dancing in your seat

With numerous costume changes, from tutus to baggy shirts, the cast will keep you guessing what’s coming next. The show explores a dancer’s life and sets up an exciting battle between ballet and hip-hop. The initial number takes the form of a dance battle, with the dancers divided into two teams as they face off. The rest of the show combines elements of ballet and hip-hop, aiming to provide an entertaining experience. The performances feature dance numbers choreographed to popular songs by Britney Spears, Missy Elliott, Michael Jackson, and many more. It also includes ballet classics like Swan Lake.

The crew delivers a confident and jaw-dropping display of breakdancing, popping, locking, and krumping as they dominate the stage. The performance also features challenging ballet moves, such as multiple fouettés, which are incredibly hard to master, along with lifts, partner work, and jumps that will have the crowd cheering. Much of the show consists of commercial dance that borrows from many different styles, requiring both energy and charisma.

While the show beautifully blends ballet and hip-hop, the dancers' hip-hop skills appear to stand out more prominently. The entire cast is incredibly talented, with their abilities shining particularly during the solo performances at the end of the show. However, there are moments when some of the choreography may not fully showcase their impressive skills. The group routines are vibrant and full of energy. Although they are incredibly lively, there are times when the choreography feels a bit uncontrolled.

The show is more than just a dance performance; it offers an introduction to dance culture. With comedy sections sprinkled throughout, it also provides an opportunity to get to know some of the characters.

As I looked around the audience, I saw many young children. The little girl next to me clung to her mother in concern as she watched a dancer tumble across the stage. Beats on Pointe brings together two dramatically different worlds, showing how we are all more alike than we might think. This crew will have you dancing in your seat.

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The Blurb:

This high-energy fusion of commercial dance entertainment is back again to deliver an all-ages show of ballet and street dance, contemporary and breaking and non-stop, five-star entertainment. A magnificent blend of classic and commercial music plus a wonderful cast of multi-talented dance athletes, this show continues to dazzle with cutting-edge entertainment. Don't miss your chance to see Australia's hottest commercial dance theatre production! ‘A colourful, energetic, fresh dance show' ***** (LondonTheatre1.com). 'The ultimate mash-up of classical ballet and modern street dance' ***** (MusicalManda.site). 'Highly recommend this amazing dance experience' ***** (One4Review.co.uk).