JAZZ MEN promised to “dazzle audiences with its non-stop breath-taking dance routines” – it did that and more when it premiered at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre on Thursday 11 January 2024.
Renowned Melbourne choreographer Robert Sturrock has delivered a stunning showcase that celebrates dance from the male perspective.
The dynamic cast included Benito Veneziano, Leigh Sleightholme, Scott Blanco, Cameron Davey, Nathan McLaughlin, Angus Eastwood, Dan Lewis, Jesse Matthews, Dean Schulz, Davey Harris and Erik Soriano.
Traversing genres and timeframes, each scene slickly segued, seducing the audience with a giddy concoction of dance styles including Jazz, Sway, Latin, Commercial, Broadway and Las Vegas glamour, featuring a soundtrack that provided more than a few surprises.
Building on each dancer’s strengths, Sturrock’s various interplays are sexy and sensual, with the group numbers being a particular highlight. The kaleidoscopic mix of costumes captivated a very enthusiastic audience.
The addition of Mandy Savickas brought some Las Vegas glamour to the stage with her stunning costumes and dancing ability. Bek Chapman (recently seen in Kinky Boots for James Terry Collective) as emcee and featured vocalist, enthralled with her engaging vocal prowess and stage presence.
With its invigorating energy, Jazz Men deserves to be seen by a wider audience. With performances planned at the Geelong Arts Centre in coming weeks, I hope audiences across Australia get to enjoy a show featuring top-notch local talent.
JAZZ MEN
Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins Street, Melbourne
Performances: Thursday 11 January 2024 – 8.00pm
Information: www.instagram.com
Image: Scott Blanco, Erik Soriano, Davy Harris, Cameron Davey, Bec Chapman, Dean Schulz, Jesse Matthews, Benito Veneziano and Leigh Sleightholme in Jazz Men – photo by Robert Cuzens
Review: Rohan Shearn