Wild Card – dotdotdot dance at Sadler’s Wells

A taste of the Spanish fiesta arrived in Islington on Thursday night with the première of dotdotdot dance’s Wild Card at Sadler’s Wells. The flamenco dance company has sold out both of its performances on the short two-night run, and it is easy to see why.

The innovative troupe, comprised of dancers Magdalena, Noemi and Yinka, put on an inspiring performance communicating three traditional flamenco styles in a creative and contemporary way. And the focus was not solely on dance – the audience were also treated to an array of musical treats as well as spoken word from acclaimed South African poet and performer Toni Stuart. Through exploring nuances in the translation and deconstruction of the energy of flamenco, the performers breathed new life into the genre and educated viewers on the depth of this traditional dance style.

Alongside these extra acts, which provided a unique perspective in the show, each dancer choreographed a dance taking on each of the flamenco styles. Although the contrasting pieces conveyed different personalities and stories, all three successfully portrayed the energy, passion and precision traditionally associated with flamenco. Audiences can learn a significant amount about this slice of Spanish culture just by watching dotdotdot dance’s thoughtfully constructed Wild Card performance.

The two-hour show was thoroughly entertaining, illuminating and pioneering, effectively expressing the pure talent and dynamism of the company’s three founders, all of whom split their time between the UK and Spain. Although this particular performance is only in town for two nights, it is certain that dotdotdot dance will have many more enlightening projects in the pipeline. Keep an eye out for where they will appear next with another inventive and intense take on flamenco.

Laura Ewing

Wild Card – dotdotdot dance is on at the Lilian Baylis Studio, Sadler’s Wells on 26^th and 27^th May 2016, for further information or to book visit here.

Watch a trailer for the production here: