Mystery of the missing ENB review (From The Oxford Times)

Mystery of the missing ENB review

12:35pm Wednesday 12th October 2011 in Features By Christopher Gray

Some of the thousands of people who packed into the New Theatre over last weekend for English National Ballet’s sell-out Strictly Gershwin are probably a bit surprised not to find a review of the show on the Oxford Times website.

There is a good reason for our critics’ silence on the subject. Strictly Gershwin, which was first seen at the Royal Albert Hall in June, has been rejigged by its director and choreographer Derek Deane for a new touring production. The Oxford performances were its first airing in public. ENB regarded these as previews which meant — following the etiquette of the theatre world — that reviews were forbidden.

Had one been written by me, I can assure you, it would have been no less than a rave. The brilliance of the dancing and singing; the sensational playing of the Orchestra of English National Ballet, conducted by Gareth Valentine; and the wonders of George and Ira Gershwin’s songs and music (including Fascinatin’ Rhythm, Lady Be Good, Summertime, I Got Rhythm, A Foggy Day, Rhapsody in Blue and Someone to Watch Over Me) —these were truly not to be missed.

So don’t miss them. Strictly Gershwin can be seen again at Milton Keynes Theatre from November 15 to 19 and at the London Coliseum from January 4 to 15.