Untapped

It's not often a reviewer can write about the choreography of a tongue, a set of vocal chords, hands and even flippers, but along with ten tapping feet, thumping bass, guitar and percussion, Brisbane-based Raw Dance Company performed with all of the above and more in this rhythmic extravaganza of dazzling sight and sound.

Raw is the essential word in this presentation, with its sexy urban style, acrobatics and funk. Also included is a standup comedian/percussionist, nicknamed Dr Rhythm, who takes great delight in showing off his live microphone technique and electronic rhythmic gizmos in a somewhat charismatic menacing style of camp. The audience thoroughly enjoyed his casual, hip, sardonic sense of humour, something even your grandmother would love, while this upbeat group of cool young dancers, including London Beat boxing champion Jonny Grant, tapped through a remarkable display of well choreographed and rehearsed dance routines, a la rap with a dash of jazz and latin, and with seamless ease and dexterity.

Untapped is well balanced, has some effective lighting, and deliberately features each individual dancer and musician. There is also good group rapport, exuberant personality and a unique intimate style designed to weave the audience into RDCworld through the use of audience participation during and even after the show. 

With the general emphasis on rhythm in commercial music these days, how apt that a percussion section be expressed through the use of various body parts with little accent on melody or harmony; and how refreshing it is to see this array of local talent inspire people of all age groups to tap their troubles away in such a convivial party environment.

Brian Adamson