21 February 2014 (gig)
26 February 2014
Three years after the International Street Dance troupe exploded onto the scene and a world tour, which has seen its 16 dancers perform to over 300,000 people, Blaze comes to the Peacock Theatre, London.
The 90 minute performance is in the format of a visual mixtape with dancers showcasing their skills to the music of Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, Kanye West, David Guetta, and Snoop Dogg,
As the program describes in detail there is no such thing as 'street dance'. What is on offer is the three elements of hip-hop 'popping, locking and breaking'. Then it starts getting confusing with krumping, vogueing and tutting. Don't worry, you don't need to be an expert on these styles although the climax of the show does involve some audience participation, so that old BAGA certificate may still come in handy.
The set design of boxes, cupboards and draws is used to full effect with dancers appearing from various doors and levels, keeping things interesting. Visually too the projections are continually changing to dramatic effect.
The dancers have worked with top artists including Beyonce, Justin Timberlake and the Rolling Stones to name but a few and hail from far flung corners of the world.
The resultant spectacle serves to entertain, engage and refresh the viewer. I left with an extra hop, skip and jump in my stride. Great entertainment for all the family.
