Playing at Sadler’s Wells’ Peacock Theatre, Rasta Thomas’ Rock the Ballet is a fusion of classical ballet, modern dance and athletics, all set to a soundtrack of pop tunes spanning several decades. The production has previously toured internationally and for the first time in the UK is showing at Sadler’s Wells’ Peacock Theatre.

The show is divided into two acts, the first of which sees a growing relationship between the two principal dancers, James Boyd and Kaitlynn Edgar. She uses her feminine wiles, whilst he displays his masculinity. Interspersed between the courting between these two the rest of the troupe also plays their part with well-choreographed performances that provide support to the love story.

In the second of the two acts, a storyline is absent, and dancers just dazzle the audiences with their well-rehearsed dance routines. A screen behind the performers provides us with a backdrop with different graphics and animations projected in synch with the changing music styles. The whole effect provides the audience with the feeling that the whole show is a series of music videos performed live for us.

Much kudos goes to Artistic director Adrienne Canterna, who’s extremely inventive use of ever-changing lighting gives the feel we’re all in a colourful 70s discothèque at times. The lighting blends well with the video backdrop, and if a little distracting at times, at least on the most part complements the dancers’ routines.