Lilian Baylis Studio, Sadler’s Wells, London
April 13, 2024
The power of dance to bring people of different ages and backgrounds together is well-documented. But if further evidence was needed, The Exchange, by ZooNation Youth Company and Sadler’s Wells’ Company of Elders, comprising dancers aged 60+, was quite simply one of the most joyous events I have experienced for a long time.
Although short at barely 40 minutes, and that included a fascinating documentary about the making of The Exchange, screened at the start of the performance, the sheer delight of the performers washed across the footlights, embracing the audience in a continuous hug.
The work is collaborative. Created by ZooNation Youth’s artistic director Chaldon Williams, it tells the stories of the individual performers, merging past, present, and future in a fusion of dance styles, influenced by hip hop culture. Both young and old danced their hearts out, and among the ZooNation contingent there are certainly some to keep an eye on. Full credit to Williams who pulled-off this wonderful symphony of young and old, sharing, caring, and loving through dance.
Following the performance, the audience was invited to take the stage, and dance with the performers. Having seconds before given them a standing ovation, most chose to, a wonderful compliment to everyone involved.
The big pity is that The Exchange only showed twice, as I am sure many more people would have liked the opportunity to be inspired by and share in the joy of all the performers.