Dance: A party on wheels

Skatepark
concept/choreography Mette Ingvartsen
performers Damien Delsaux, Manuel Faust, Aline Boas, Mary Pop Wheels, Sam Gelis, Fouad Nafili, Júlia Rúbies Subirós, Thomas Bîrzan, Indreas Kifleyesus, Mathias Thiers, Bob Aertsen, Bo Huyghebaert
music Felix Kubin, Mord Records, Why the eye, sonaBLAST! Records, Rrose, The Fanny Pads, Restive Plaggona
sound Anne van de Star, Peter Lenaerts
lighting Minna Tiikkainen • costumes Jennifer Defays
Sadler's Wells East, Stratford • 10-12.Apr.25 ★★★★

Inspired by the speed, precision, fluidity and persistence of skateboarders, Danish choreographer and dancer Mette Ingvartsen developed this piece to reflect a subculture rooted in rebellious behaviour that embraces the tension between art and commercialism. The show is cleverly designed to look like young people randomly at play, embracing the sport's imperfections in falls and collisions, which add an improvisational element to the choreography. And as it traces a day and night, it also becomes a celebration of both anarchy and community.

The large stage at Sadler's Wells East is set up like a typical skate park, with ramps, rails, platforms, jumps and fences. Before the show, local children and teens have a go on it in their own style. Then at the designated time, the eclectic cast of Skatepark takes over with a more coordinated attack. A mix of male and female skateboarders, roller skaters and acrobats spirals around the space, enthusiastically performing tricks while playfully interacting with each other. They also join in performing the music, with guitars, percussion and vocals throughout the show.

As the piece continues over about 90 minutes, small vignettes appear here and there with shapes and movement, plus some competitive segments in which gymnasts challenge each other to do handstands and skateboarders attempt to jump over increasingly high obstacles. From pre-teens to young adults, these are seriously adept performers, mixing choreographic synchronicity with personal style and impressive skills. And because the show is continually shifting, the repetition never gets boring. Indeed, it's increasingly gripping because we never know where it's going next.

Later on, the stage fades to black and there's an extended sequence with isolated lights and masks that mixes dance, music and performance art. The visual effect is stunning, and it also extends the sense of youthful optimism and defiance that emerges from these talented performers. It's as if they are announcing their independence from what is considered to be civilised society, happily joining with friends while working hard to perfect something they love. So the lingering question is what will they do when they grow up? Or are they already there?

For details, SADLER'S WELLS >

photos by Pierre Gondard • 10.Apr.25