Sydney Reviews

Left & cover – Todd McKenney and Nancye Hayes. Photos – Clare Hawley

Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks is a delightful story told well. It follows the unlikely friendship of Lily and Michael; two people who try to veil their pasts while yearning for a more meaningful future. They are brought together by dance lessons which create a platform for this tale. Richard Alfieri writes witty one liners which quickly become a scaffold for the more meaningful story behind the two characters.

Nancye Hayes and Todd McKenny’s connection on stage is instant. It’s fiery and funny and it sets the tone for the play within their first few moments of dialogue. 

Hayes portrayal of Lily is beautiful to watch. She physically and emotionally unfolds before your eye. Subtle changes become more powerful than the more obvious transformation. Hayes is magnetic and her dancing is a joy.

McKenny’s character is bolder and brassier yet he too reveals a deeper and more meaningful story behind the punch lines. He brings a great energy to the set and holds it there. Even when the mood is low McKenny maintains a sense of élan. He is dramatic and dynamic and as a pair Hayes and McKenny are well matched.

The set design, lighting and costume all worked seamlessly together and contributed to the overall success of this play.

Watching Hayes and McKenny dance was such fun. I wanted more. I could have watched them twirl and jive and foxtrot for hours. Instead I watched them for minutes and loved every second. The dancing was the cherry on top of a heart warming and entertaining performance.


Ensemble Theatre
SIX DANCE LESSONS IN SIX WEEKS

Venue: The Concourse Theatre, Cnr. Victoria Ave & Anderson St, Chatswood
Dates: 27 Feb – 13 March, 2016
Tickets: $66 – $73
Bookings: 02 9929 0644 | www.ensemble.com.au