Reviews

What was on offer at the New Wolsey though was a far cry from the Salsa seen on the recent BBC One idents, and indeed in village halls and sports halls across the county.

I was expecting an assault on the senses – a riot of colour and dance. What I got was a production that enthralled in places, but also tried to explore some pretty deep issues – including extremes of religion, the 'danger' of dance, the 'wolf in sheep's clothing' and the roles of men and women in different cultures.

The story wasn't played out in chronological order – something that was at times rather disconcerting. I also found some of the dialogue a little stilted, and I didn't believe in all the relationships, but the production certainly picked up in the second half and it seemed to inspire much of the audience.

The cast was given rousing applause at the end and I spied several people in the bar during the interval trying out some of the moves themselves, although much of the choreography on show on the stage wasn't the kind many of us could even begin to attempt!

The idea for The Wedding Dance was sparked when NITRO's Artistic Director Felix Cross heard a CD of international salsa composer Alex Wilson. There's no doubt the music (and the hips of lothario José, played by David Gyasi) impressed and beguiled the audience – it was just a shame it wasn't performed live on stage.

Most of the audience seemed to appreciate the production. I was left a little unsure as to whether it was a celebration of Salsa or an exploration of some difficult themes. The storyline was a little too complicated to achieve either successfully.

The Wedding Dance is on at the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich until 31 March.