Phoenix Dance Theatre at the Linbury

Leeds-based Phoenix Dance Theatre has been at the vanguard of British contemporary dance for over three decades. True to form, they now bring London audiences a challenging programme of two new works and one reversioned piece.
The new works come from award-winning choreographer Caroline Finn and Phoenix’s Artistic Director, Sharon Watson, while the renowned Israeli choreographer Itzik Galili presents a new version of a 1998 piece co-commissioned by the Royal Ballet.
Tearfall by Sharon Watson explores the make-up and emotional expression of tears and crying. Watson worked with scientists from the Wellcome Trust to bring a scientific basis to her choreographic movement. The dancers in short body suits represent molecules of tears conveying loss, pain, laughter and longing. Expect delightful solos and duets, a stylish staging with the use of balloons, pendant lights and smoky lighting.
Caroline Finn’s Bloom is an extravagant and distinctive theatrical piece that was rapturously received when it was performed in Liverpool earlier this year. Based on the chaotic domain of the mind, Finn says “In Bloom I wanted to explore the ideas of façades, intentionally or subconsciously, in order to be the people we think we should be, want to be, or who we think society expects us to be.” Dressed in black and grey costumes and masks, the cast gradually emerge from behind their façades to tell their stories 
through Finn’s darkly comic choreography.
Israeli choreographer Itzik Galili brings us a new version of his 1998 work Until With/Out Enough. The piece unfolds in a closed space such as exists in our minds, where a fragile fantasy develops to the ebb and flow of Henryk Górecki’s immersive music.
Phoenix Dance Company have become one of the key contemporary dance ensembles in this country; and this programme represents an exciting new stage in its development. It should be seen.