Tales of the Turntable is the latest production by the ZooNation Youth Company. Written and choreographed by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille it is fast and furious. Tales of the Turntable follows Eric and his grandfather as they take a trip through musical history. Finding out they have more in common than they first thought, George turns back time through his gramophone to show Eric the early origins of hip-hop, funk and soul through to disco, house and rap.
The young cast are energetic, committed and passionate throughout the show. Carrie-Anne Ingrouille’s creative choreography allows little time for the talented cast to rest and yet they make each section and routine seem effortless. The innovative choreography manages to be fresh and modern and yet draws influences from a wide range of dance and music eras. There are very few moments of calm onstage, with each cast member constantly on the go – whether at the forefront or background. Each performer excels throughout and dances far beyond their young age but special mentions must go to Xsia Blair, Basit Ayanwusi, William Pascua and Talia Gordon whose commitment to the character and storytelling draws the eye throughout. The choreography is dynamic, quick-paced and works brilliantly with the original music, mixed by DJ Walde.
The bright, vivid lighting, by Matt Cater, really brings this show into its own and is timed perfectly with the music and dance moves. The entire show is what audiences have come to expect of ZooNation – a riot of dance and fun. With an original storyline completed with clever narration, it is more than just a dance show.
The level of talent and professionalism shown onstage by the cast is incredible given their young age. Perfect for families, Tales of the Turntable will no doubt inspire many young dancers with its fresh, fun approach. The only minor criticism is the length of some of the sections, particularly as the show is aimed as families – this said however this is easily forgotten as audiences are sucked in by the sheer talent of the cast and the enjoyment they radiate as they perform. Fans of ZooNation or newbies to their talents should definitely aim to make a visit to the Southbank Centre this summer for Tales of the Turntable.
Review by Amanda Reynolds
Follow the beat back through time, as Eric and his grandfather take a trip through musical history at a dance and music show for all the family, by ZooNation Youth Company.
Budding young DJ Eric and his grandfather George find out they have more in common than they once thought. Inspired by moments from Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure and Back to the Future, George winds back the clock through his gramophone to show Eric the importance of what has come before.
Join the pair on an adventure through time – from the early origins of hip-hop, funk and soul through to disco, house and rap.
Written by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, choreographer of West End hit Six, this innovative piece of dance theatre features music mixed by DJ Walde. A Southbank Centre commission created by ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company.
Tales of the Turntable
15 Aug 2019 – 26 Aug 2019
Approximate run time: 70 mins
https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/