Review... Dance Rhythms of the Caribbean: The National Dance Company of Jamaica
“The brilliance and magic of Jamaican Folklore dance”
Having witnessed the National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC) of Jamaica's live performance three times now including once at the Little Theatre in Kingston, Jamaica, back in 2019, this time I visited the Curve Theatre, in Leicester UK, in May 2024. I enjoyed attending with my family, embracing our culture as we watched it come alive on stage. Seeing both nights sold out was heartening, a testament to the company's enduring popularity; and why embracing cultural diversity on stage is key.
Photo by Bryan Robinson
Get a flavour and watch a snippet of NDTC choreography here
Jamaica's cultural heritage and more...
The performance was a dynamic showcase of Jamaican cultural folklore dances, featuring vibrant renditions of 'Jonkunnu', 'Mento', 'Dinki Mini', 'Bruckins', and even the 'Maypole Dance'. Each dance form was brought to life, reflecting Jamaica's rich cultural heritage and diverse influences.
Tamar - unique tay at Little Theatre, Kingston Jamaica - NDTC
What struck me most was the all-women group's inspirational performance, accompanied by a poignant poetry voiceover that resonated deeply with me and the audience. Along with the traditional Jonkunnu dance, with its elaborate costumes and rhythmic drumming, transported us to the heart of Jamaican folklore traditions.
A joyous celebration across generations
The theatre buzzed with energy as a diverse audience. The seats were filled with a widespread of multiple generations and cultures. Predominantly members of the British Caribbean community, professional dance artists and members of the wider community came together to see this spectacular, celebration of Jamaican culture.
NDTC's tour was part of Serendipity's Let's Dance International Frontiers (LDIF) 2024 programme, which offers a platform for showcasing diverse dance forms and cultural expressions. For this year the theme is 'Camouflage: Embodied Dance'. Based in Leicester, Serendipity is vital in promoting cultural exchange and appreciation within the community.
In summary
NDTC's performance at Curve Theatre Leicester was a multigenerational cultural extravaganza that left a lasting impression on all who attended. It was a joyous celebration of Jamaican heritage, uniting audiences through the universal language of dance and music.
Check out my trip to Jamaica, podcast interviews with Jamaicans, and more - My Caribbean insights
Image of Jamaican national dish. Thanks to Tamar’s aunty
Key links
National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica - a blend of Jamaica’s, music and dance traditions of Jamaica, Africa and the American South
Serendipity UK -Insitute for Black Arts and Heritage, based in Leicester UK
Visit Curve Theatre
Thank you. Review by Tamar - unique tay
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