Bale de Rua

Energetic and colourful, 'Bale de Rua' are a great deal of fun

★★★★
archive review (edinburgh) | Read in About 1 minute
Published 06 Aug 2008

A cool Bossa Nova beat fills the air as Bale de Rua begin tonight's show. Hips wiggle, shoulders shake and the Anglo-Saxon audience aches to share some of this enviable Latin rhythm. Presenting the incredible talents of 14 men and one woman, this self-titled production is a rich and powerful dance and drums extravaganza, exploring Brazil's colourful musical tapestry.

Atmospheric lighting and a backdrop of interactive scaffolding creates a performance space which echoes the grittiness of downtown Rio De Janiero. As the show moves from strength to strength, attention-grabbing props enhance the already innovative choreography.

The group sequences are not always perfectly polished but, then, this is Brazil. Laid back and relaxed, the troupe gilde through a seamless blend of brasilera, capoeira, street dance and samba. Their energy is relentless, and Bale De Rua accelerate towards a head spinning finale that spirals into a tumultuous jamboree.

Daring to be different and awash with colour and vibrancy, Bale De Rua are a a true celebration of Latin American culture.