Setting the dance floor ablaze

A new stage extravaganza finally gives street dance the platform it deserves. Lachlan Bennett reports.

Hip-hop dance show Blaze will roar onto the Australian stage next January following critically acclaimed tours of London, Paris, Berlin and Bangkok.

The high-energy production features a sixteen-strong dance troupe performing to the music of Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, Kanye West, David Guetta and Snoop Dog.

The dancers have been assembled from across the globe to produce a show that embodies the distinct style of break dancing and hip-hop.

“Street dance is the true contemporary dance style of the 21st century – it never stands still and constantly evolves and reinvents itself,” said Blaze director Anthony van Laast.

“The dancers are the true stars of Blaze and the quality of their performance is second to none. I feel lucky to have worked with one of the best creative teams in the industry to develop a production that showcases their talent so beautifully.”

Van Laast is a widely acclaimed West End director and choreographer with a talent for large-scale stage productions.

He has previously directed the stage productions of Sister Act, Mamma Mia and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

Blaze will combine the athleticism and raw power of live dance with incredible visuals that utilise the latest projection technologies.

The set was inspired by the chaos of a teenager’s bedroom and acts as a giant canvas for these dazzling video and light displays.

Blaze runs from January 8-20, 2013, at the Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House. Tickets from $49. Book: www.sydneyoperahouse.com.