Raise the Barre

A simply outstanding dance show - ten stunningly talented dancers set the tone from the first moment they take the stage in this show from Australian company, Masters of Choreography, with beautifully clean lines and powerful moves, punctuated by comedic moments from the troupe of Cheeky Boys (as self-proclaimed on their t-shirts).

As dancers enter a studio, greeting and embracing each other, a teacher announces the start of the dancers' final exam, and the performances begin. There's an impressive range of styles showcased by the dancers, including ballet, contemporary, commercial, breaking, and hip hop, with several strong krump sections as well as moments of locking and tutting. Performed to well-known tracks of rock, pop, dance and ballads, styles are mixed and matched, with top rock, ballet and contemporary danced together to one track, and en pointe ballet and commercial hip hop to another. Each style is performed effortlessly and with boundless energy; the breaker casually drops endless air flares after some powerful headspins and babymills. Calmer moments with solos or duos are followed by full-cast choreographies with off-the-chart vibrancy.
The dancers' energy is infectious, and they're keen to encourage the audience to make some noise with claps and cheers.
Woohoo moment: it wouldn't be too much of a stretch to say that most moments in the show are woohoo moments - if you enjoy dance of any kind, don't miss this!