Rambert Dance has once again captivated audiences with their groundbreaking interpretation of the cult TV series “Peaky Blinders,” now gracing the stage at The Lowry. This mesmerizing production not only pays homage to the original series but also transforms it into a stunning visual and auditory experience that transcends traditional storytelling. The adaptation is dark, menacing, and riveting, offering a full-on assault on the senses. With a spectacular trio of musicians providing a live soundtrack, the dancers narrate the rise and fall of the tormented character Thomas Shelby, creating an immersive atmosphere that draws the audience into the gritty world of post-war Birmingham.
The allure of “Peaky Blinders” lies in its rich character development and intricate plotlines, which are beautifully captured in this dance interpretation. While familiarity with the TV series undoubtedly enhances the experience, newcomers to the Peaky Blinders universe will still find themselves engrossed in the performance. The storytelling is so expertly crafted that it resonates on a fundamental level, allowing even those unfamiliar with the characters to grasp the essence of the narrative. The absence of traditional dialogue is compensated by the powerful physicality of the dancers, who convey a wide range of emotions and themes through their movements. The late Benjamin Zephaniah’s resonant Brummie tones serve as a sporadic narrator, guiding the audience through the unfolding visual maze, further enriching the experience.
At the heart of the production is Conor Kerrigan’s portrayal of Thomas Shelby. Cillian Murphy’s iconic performance in the television series set a high bar, but Kerrigan embodies the essence of the character with remarkable depth and nuance. His physical presence, characterized by a square-shouldered stance and the deliberate shrugging on of the overcoat, captures the spirit of Tommy Shelby perfectly. Kerrigan’s performance is not just a replication of Murphy’s; it is a fresh interpretation that highlights the complexity of a character burdened by his past and haunted by his choices. The supporting cast, portraying characters such as Arthur, Polly, Grace, and Ada, are equally impressive, bringing to life the distinctive characteristics that fans have come to recognize and love. Each dancer is a supremely gifted physical storyteller, contributing to the overall narrative with their unique interpretations.
The production’s dark themes are palpable from the very first scene, which transports the audience to the harrowing battlefields of the First World War. This opening sequence sets the tone for the entire performance, evoking feelings of loss, instability, and terror that linger throughout the show. The creative use of lighting plays a crucial role in establishing this atmosphere. Much of the performance is bathed in an eerie twilight, where unknown fears lurk in the shadows, enhancing the sense of foreboding that permeates the narrative. The interplay of light and darkness not only serves to create a visually stunning backdrop but also mirrors the internal struggles of the characters, particularly Tommy Shelby.
Music is an integral part of the “Peaky Blinders” experience, and this production does not disappoint. The live soundtrack, performed by a talented trio of musicians, is a vital component that elevates the storytelling to new heights. Mitchel Emms on vocals, guitars, and keyboards, Joe Downard on bass and cello, and drummer and percussionist Yaron Engler provide a hypnotic soundtrack that ranges from heavy metal to orchestral arrangements. The music is not merely an accompaniment; it is a character in its own right, enhancing the emotional weight of each scene. The inclusion of contemporary songs, which played a significant role in the TV series, adds a layer of familiarity for fans while also introducing new auditory dimensions for those experiencing the story for the first time. The haunting strains of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds’ “Red Right Hand” resonate throughout the performance, grounding it in the gritty reality of the Peaky Blinders universe.
The choreography is a masterful blend of contemporary dance and classical techniques, allowing the dancers to convey complex emotions and narratives through their movements. The intensity of the performances is palpable, particularly in scenes that depict the violent struggles for power within the Shelby family and their rivals. An intense gang fight, where Tommy battles to regain control, is worthy of any Hollywood epic, showcasing not only the physical prowess of the dancers but also the raw emotional stakes involved. The choreography captures the chaos and brutality of these conflicts, immersing the audience in the visceral reality of the characters’ lives.
One particularly striking scene takes place in an opium den, where Tommy seeks to escape the nightmares that constantly haunt him. This sequence is eerie, disturbing, and downright scary at times, encapsulating the psychological torment that defines his character. The dancers’ movements become a reflection of Tommy’s internal struggle, as they twist and turn in a dance that is as haunting as it is beautiful. This ability to convey complex emotions through movement is a testament to the skill of the cast and the vision of the creative team behind the production.