Hofesh Shechter’s Grand Finale, playing at HOME, Manchester is simply sensational. It is an ambitious highlight reel depicting every monumental moment in life- the extreme highs, the deep lows, and the relationships that are formed and cherished throughout.
Shechter knows how to put on a spectacle, and it is my opinion that his unification of movement, light, and sound is unparalleled in dance today. The piece is beautifully lit by Tom Visser- with scenes revealed and submerged, circumstances changing before our eyes, unnoticed as the passage of time in a cinema. The juxtaposition of vast moments in life alongside each other is sublime, keeping me constant state of tension, my attention never waning. Musicians, cast in silhouette as they transition in and out of the performance, are striking, their role entwined and essential to the piece. The sound they create is both moving and haunting, while their jovial mid-interval entertainment allows the audience a respite in preparation for the show itself to resume.
The dancers themselves are stunning, the chorus come together to create striking tableaus with which everyone can identify: a party, gathering, lecture, festival, and then they break out and create chaos where before there was certainty. There are nods to the folk dance and ritual that are ever-present in human life through the ages – this is a piece that can’t be pinned to a location or era – it is universally understandable. More than this, the relationships between performers are raw and achingly honest- a man is dragged across the stage, a couple embrace and cradle one another, a woman is man-handled as others attempt to keep her on her feet. Are they supporting each other or pushing them beyond their will? Whilst perception is open-ended, I believe them all, I’m invested in them all, and can’t for a moment take my eyes or mind away, and nor do I want to.
The fluidity and breath contained in even the simplest movements is induces goose-bumps; effortless expansion of limbs and incorporation of expression are jaw-dropping in isolation. But the dynamics never stagnate – Shechter’s music always provides a break, a hit, an energy shift to surprise and delight. My favourite moments are the collective’s highs; to witness the pure delight of movement as a group, the energy bounding between performers, is enthralling. At times percussive and powerful, at times quiet and smooth – the dancers each have so much individuality in their expression, but this doesn’t prevent them from coming together as an ensemble. It feels like a celebration of diversity and communal energy – that is far from clichéd.
Grand Finale is an awe-inspiring display of humanity in all its glory and gore; a natural collaboration of vital movement, music that leaves your ears ringing and heart soaring, and staging to create a seamless, unforgettable show. If you are in Manchester this weekend- do not miss the opportunity to see this world-class show, until Saturday.
Emma Reviews 