Matthew Bourne’s 'The Car Man'
Performance Reviews || Thursday, 1 November, 2007
Reworking and updating Bizet's 'Carmen'; the original set in a 19th century Spanish cigarette factory, in 'Car Man' it becomes a sweaty garage and diner in 1960’s America. The seductive gypsy becomes the brazen drifter. Matthew Bourne's love of old musicals, in particular the cinematic versions, are apparent as is his great sense of humour.
The music, adapted by Terry Davies, is not exclusively from 'Carmen' but has inspired the choreography in a most creative way. For example, from the very funny communal shower scene to the ‘Toreador Song’ to the tortured prison solo set to the ‘Flower Song’ from the opera.
Despite the feeling in the beginning that you were waiting for someone to burst in to song or to speak, the energy and acting ability of the dancers, the fluid movement of scenes and diversity of the dance styles meant you were whipped up in to the story.
Some people might find some of the scenes too graphically sexual but like any good story, they are there for a reason, showing you a side of small town America which would have felt untrue and sugary in their absence .
It is all too easy to be a contemporary dance snob* but I would urge anyone to put that aside, especially if you feel like going to the cinema. Matthew Bourne’s work has been described in the past as being like a “dancical”. With 'Car Man', I felt I was watching a great “dancilm” (say that again, I dare you! Ed!), or in keeping with the American style, a “doovie”!!
Runs until November 3rd.
*And for all of you out there look out for the hilarious take on Martha Graham!
Stumble It!
