This year’s offering for the Dance Showcase was based on Rambert’s Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby.
This thrilling stage adaptation opens in the trenches of Flanders, and a personal story unfolds in post-war industrial Birmingham as the Shelby family navigate the decisions that determine their fate. Whilst Tommy and his band of brothers return to the city to reclaim and build his empire, he is intoxicated by the beguiling Grace, who is operating as an undercover agent for Special Branch on a mission to get close to the heart of Tommy’s gang. As the story unfolds, hearts are broken, and revenge is sought.
The role of Thomas Shelby was danced by newcomer to the dance department, Jem D who captured his character’s brooding and tortured persona to perfection. Jem’s leading lady was, veteran to the stage, Milly H whose depiction of morally conflicted Grace was utterly loveable and forgivable.
Other outstanding performances came from the Peaky Blinders boys, Will B and Lucas C-R, also new to the dance stage, along with frequent flyers, Thomas D and Ziggy T, who were all almost frighteningly convincing in their depiction of the unhinged and unpredictable Birmingham gang! Dylan K too donned his fedora hat with suitable swagger as the vengeful, Luca Changretta.
The success of the Dance Showcase however is not solely based on the strength of its lead dancers. The narrative simply would not have held together were it not for the dedication of the ensemble, who were unfailing in their commitment to their roles from factory workers to punters at the races to opium addicts to gypsies enticing Thomas Shelby to the Underworld.
