As INTOTO dance returned to The Lindsey Theatre, with their new group of apprentice performers from the London Studio Centre, they did not fail to stun the audience with stimulating contemporary dance and dance theatre. Led by artistic directors Sally Owen and Sue Booker the 21 students presented a programme of four varied dance works with much enthusiasm.

The first piece, “Wrapped” by Marina Collard presented a range of fluid contact work contrasting to a sound scape of distorted noise, thus giving the piece an uncomfortable eeriness. This abstract piece set the contemporary mood for the night.

“Shibuya” by Shobana Jeyasingh was a colourful fusion of Indian and contemporary dance styles. I was surprised to also see an occasional hint of street dance, which showed some of the dancers’ versatility.

The penultimate piece, “Start to Fall” was choreographed by the well respected Henri Oguike. The movement was slinky, jazzy and romantic, leaving the title open to interpretation as to whether they were “Starting to Fall” in love? This performance shone through as my favourite of the night.

The programme ended with a comical yet prominent piece, “Enough” by Michael Popper. This was witty dance theatre which showed some of the dancers’ acting and singing abilities. In contrast to the rest of the programme, it contained characterisations, which at first seemed random but as the story unfolded, the meaning behind the title, “Enough”, became clear.

I personally attended the show with two companions who were contemporary dance illiterate. The INTOTO performers inspired them both to crave more. This is always possible at The Lindsey Theatre who seem to be the only source of contemporary dance in our region. Thanks go to The Lindsey Theatre.

Review by Renée Horrell