Eastman, Fractus V: Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui ★★★★★

Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, Fractus review: Culture Whisper says ★★★★★

Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, Sadler’s Wells associate artist and celebrated contemporary choreographer, is back in London with a UK premiere inspired by the ideas of the American linguist and social critic Noam Chomsky.

Cherkaoui is particularly interested in what Chomsky calls the ‘fracture’ (hence Fractus) between individual and society. From that starting point, he considers concepts such as propaganda and neutrality; and how individuals engage with both.

It’s hard to imagine a translation into dance, but Cherkaoui is known for ambitious projects and movement of remarkable fluidity, often complex and detailed.

One of Chomsky’s ideas is that to remain objective one must take in as much information as possible. This must suit the Belgian-Moroccan choreographer, who has spent his career drawing from styles as varied as Argentine Tango, breakdance and Shaolin martial arts.

Created to celebrate the 40^th anniversary of iconic company Pina Bausch Tanztheater Wuppertal, in Fractus V, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui indulges his passion for multiplicity of style and nationality.

Music will be played live by Japanese percussionist Shogo Yoshii, Korean singer Woojae Park, Indian sarod player Soumik Datta, Congolese singer Kaspy N’Dia.

The all-male cast of dancers, all accomplished in their own fields, hearken from across the dance spectrum. Circus performer Dimitri Jourde, Lindy Hop dancer Johnny Llyoyd, flamenco dancer Fabian Thomé Duten and breakdancer Patrick Williams Seebacher (aka Twoface) gather under the umbrella of Eastman Company. Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, himself a striking performer, will be joining his dancers on stage.

Cherkaoui’s penchant for the profound is not to everyone’s taste, but not for nothing is he one of the most respected choreographers in contemporary dance. London can count on a show with great performers and beautiful, intricate movement. As for the rest, we can’t wait to see.