Lazgi - Dance of Soul & Love
Lazgi is a captivating performance divided into four distinct sections, with an interval in the middle. Choreographed by the renowned German choreographer Raimondo Rebeck and presented by the Uzbekistan Arts and Culture Development Foundation, this piece pays homage to traditional dances while updating them to be accessible to a broader audience.
The dancers throughout the show are nothing short of incredible. The production is filled with breathtaking moments, from spaces lit with candles to stunning projections on golden fabric and even the delicate movement of fabric in the wind. These visual elements create an enchanting atmosphere, though my words can hardly capture their full beauty.
The show begins with "An Oasis Somewhere on a Silk Road," which blends tradition with narrative. If you're concerned about following the storyline, rest assured that it's provided in the programme, though the dance alone speaks volumes. The piece opens with performers moving under a large golden cloth, their subtle movements bringing it to life. It culminates in a stunning duet that leaves a lasting impression.
The second section, "A Natural History Museum," captivated me with its design and lighting. Most performers begin in display cases while one-character roams, observing them. The first case to come alive featured what appeared to be phenomenal contortion, though it might have been two performers working together—either way, the effect was both fantastic and slightly eerie.
The third piece, "The World of Today and Traditions," is the most contemporary and also my favourite. As soon as it opens, we get the office setting, with the dancers performing routine, repetitive movements that instantly establish the scene. A standout moment involves dancers en-pointe on a spinning office chair—remarkable and a bit dangerous!. The monochrome palette of this section perfectly captures the mundane feel of office life.
The final section brings the heritage to life through dance, costume, and live music on stage. A mesmerizing fusion of tradition and contemporary elegance. There are a few voiceover moments that I didn’t understand, but they didn't seem essential to the performance. They felt more like ambient sound, adding another layer to the experience.
This show was reviewed on the 14th September 2024 at the London Coliseum.
Review written by Valentine Gale-Sides
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