Emanuel Gat Dance – LOVETRAIN2020 ★★★ Sadler's Wells Theatre | November 17 & 18, 2023


Tears for Fears were definitely a standout duo in the 80's, and Emanuel Gat Dance interprets their work in a show that demonstrates lots of thought and provides some striking moments. All the big hits are here: "Mad World," "Shout," "Everybody Wants to Rule The World," "Change," and "Sowing The Seeds Of Love." For fans this will be a wonderful walk down memory lane, and the show certainly captures the introspective, self-reflective side of the themes running through the music. However, for us, what was missing was the more energetic, rebellious, political aspect of the lyrics. With a song like "Shout" we expected a lot more animation and pep. It didn't feel like we were being called upon to "Shout, Shout, Let it all out." The silent interludes between songs, while sometimes effective, also lowered the intensity, and on occasion, could seem unconnected. Almost throughout the show, the lighting is low and murky, often obscuring the movement, and the voluminous fabric of the costumes can interfere with one's ability to appreciate the choreography. The choreography itself often sets up multiple focal points which may be complementary, but it can also be distracting. For us, the high points of the evening were some lovely solos and pas de deux. Emanuel Gat Dance creates a fittingly atmospheric homage to the work of the legendary musical partnership that helped define an era.

Rated: ★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Julia Gat

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