Firstly, go see the show … it’s good, fun, and refreshing. A cohesive programme of three short works from “up and coming” choreographers.

The night felt positively retro-futuristic  in style and design. ‘UN3D’, and ‘Hang there Baby’ were giving  ‘Wes Anderson meets 1970s Robert North’ aesthetics  with contemporary sensibilities. Infinity Duet suggested early Trisha Brown but without being derivative in its design or movement.

I felt I was seeing  the threshold of change in the choreographic practices presented. Each practice was deftly supported by rehearsal director Victoria Roberts who gave each work space to breath, but guided a coherent, and articulate company throughout the evening.

Infinity Duet : Faye Tan and Cecile Johnson-Soliz 

A trio of performers (two people and a sculpture engage in actions, refractions, and contemplation. This abstracted but subtly interpersonal encounter, was  performed to a score of (s)crunching paper with a meandering ostinato. If you wanted this work to go on longer, keep your fingers crossed that  NDCW will bring back “In Tandem” from the same creative team.

UN3D :Osian Meilir 

A series of unfolding movement ideas and concepts (de)synchronised to the sounds of Björk, and The Police. A humorous encounter that transforms the costumes as much as the movement materials. Overall I enjoyed the flower of unfolding delights, but some ideas lingered a little too long.

Hang in There, Baby : John-William Watson

70’s pastels, and a new years office party at the setting for exploration of decisions, destiny, and clones. The cubicle sized set, carefully constructed movement, and alternative outcomes offered contemporary dance meets Wes Anderson. Although this work was a remounting, it didn’t sit uncomfortably on the company, or seem at odds with the rest of the program.

I hope NDCW will continue to develop these (and other) new voices as it establishes its new identity and leadership. Thresholds can be fragile spaces, and the Welsh dance sector needs growth and belief..