Matthew Bourne’s darkly dazzling dance drama, where lovers meet and part in a pub in foggy Soho, is a masterclass in non-verbal communication, says Georgina Brown

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The Midnight Bell (Touring)

Verdict: Through a glass darkly

 

In the course of Matthew Bourne’s captivating dance drama with a dark allure, there’s a scene where one character mimics singing to the rhythm of Cole Porter’s ‘What Is This Feeling We Call Love?’.

In this story, none of the ten vividly portrayed figures utter a word, yet their deep emotions of yearning, desire, and affection for companionship are articulated powerfully through their actions. They cautiously extend themselves, yearning to establish a meaningful bond and alleviate feelings of isolation.

He has collected stories from Patrick Hamilton’s less famous novels and drifted them into a foggy Fitzrovia during the 1930s, skillfully portrayed by Les Brotherston’s design of an ordinary London pub named The Midnight Bell. Here, they come and go, or happily stand behind the bar.

The manner in which they finish off their glass of whiskey tells a story. For some, it’s a form of comfort, drained swiftly and slammed on the table.

For someone who quickly downs it, it’s a swift swallow of bravery from the Netherlands, taken before venturing to meet an unfamiliar person.

For a meticulous woman, holding onto the glass tightly, it serves as a prop as she passes the time, anticipating the arrival of her date.

Another swivels it, beaming, already one too many and not giving a damn.

Many casual encounters end up in a shabby hotel room, revealing the intricate details of the involved relationships, sometimes painfully, at times gently.

A shrewd, unscrupulous man dressed in a plaid coat swipes money from his friend’s handbag; however, the following encounter, she exacts her retribution on him.

For the gay lovers, it’s a blissful release of pent-up desire.

It has a captivating ambiance, moving gracefully, the mesmerizing dance performance never fails to impress, alternating between sensual and profound.

Through the craftsmanship of Bourne, the blending of dance, rhythm, and melody (as masterfully composed by Terry Davies) becomes more nuanced than mere language could ever express.

Ring this Bell, if it comes anywhere near you.

For tour details visit new-adventures.net

GEORGINA BROWN

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2025-06-26 21:18