5 SOLDIERS
Sherman Theatre, Cardiff
Tue 2 Apr
The body is the frontline, so says the tagline of Rosie Kay’s Dance Company’s unique dance interpretation of life at the very centre of combat. Presented in association with the British Army, this production is touring nationally and elsewhere in Europe and the US this spring.
A look at how the human body is a crucial component in conflict, 5 Soldiers’ concept stemmed from choreographer Rosie Kay’s decision to join the 4th Battalion The Rifles back in 2008, in order to watch and participate in full battle exercises. Her previous choreography work includes the Commonwealth Games Handover Ceremony last year, and MK Ultra, a collaboration with documentarian Adam Curtis. It’s therefore unsurprising that her trademark style of intense physical and athletic dance results in gripping visuals.
Unusually and uniquely, 5 Soldiers offers no particular moral stance towards war itself, but instead offers an insight into what is asked of soldiers fighting today and what is physically demanded and expected of the men and women serving on the frontline in the 21st century. Alongside Kay’s experience, the current cast includes a serving trooper of the Welsh Cavalry, also a professional dancer, adding to the questions raised by the production.
Tickets: £16/£14. Info: 029 2064 6900 / www.shermantheatre.co.uk
words Chloe Edwards
