Dance: Perfect synchronicity

Murmuration: Level 2
by Sadeck Berrabah
music TRex
featuring Berrabah alongside 30 uncredited performers
costume, lighting and stage designers are also uncredited
Peacock Theatre, London • 10-20.Sep.25 ★★★★

After a sold-out tour through France, dancer-choreographer Sadeck Berrabah stages the UK premiere of the second version of his acclaimed Murmuration, named after the way birds flock together, creating shapes in perfect sync. It's a mesmerising show that mixes a range of movement, from ballet to hip hop, also inckluding elements of mime and martial arts. And it's set to a carefully curated mix of smooth music and eye-catching lighting.

The performers' precision is astonishing, as they never miss a beat. Much of the show consists of them arranged as a choir, creating rippling shapes with their arm, as well as some colourfully reflective props. And there are several more varied scenes featuring solos, duets or groups moving around the stage. Berrabah often appears as their conductor, injecting personality into the show. Dressed in baggy black costumes, the dancers mainly maintain neutral facial expressions. Then when the energy kicks up, they flash the occasional smile.

Energy is an issue with this show, because the sleepy muzak-like compositions and repetitive movements have a hypnotic quality that weighs heavily on the eyelids. Inventive lighting effects help spice things up, especially with some rich colour washes and a thrilling use of UV. Several segments also bring stronger beats both in the music and movement, as these hugely gifted and disciplined performers remain stunningly connected to each other. There are also brief moments in which a moment of spontaneous joy bursts out among them.

It all wraps up in a terrific one-two punch, as the good-natured Berrabah takes the stage to teach the audience an extended bit of choreo. This leads into a finale that is a real heart-stopper, as clever props and costume changes create magical effects along with a final text message spelled out beautifully with the cast's armography. This show is thoroughly entrancing. But perhaps for Level 3, Berrabah could encourage some improvisational spark to more effectively reveal the individuals who make up this exactingly singular company. 

For information, SADLER'S WELLS >

photos by Fabien Malot • 10.Sep.25