Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks

Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks is a strong two-hander, with clear direction and a talented cast, shortly to finish its run at KADS’ Theatre in Kalamunda

The story of Lily, an elderly lady in Florida, and her dance teacher Michael, it is the meeting of two lonely people who develop a special relationship between dancing the Viennese Waltz, the Tango and the Cha Cha.

Lily’s St Petersburg Beach apartment is beautifully realised by design and dressing by Peter Bloor, Martin Dorman and Karin Stafflund - with lovely attention to detail and an exquisite floor. Lighting was a little oddly timed on the night I saw it, but there were some lovely lighting states.

The two performers have a lovely rapport and create two complex and interesting characters - both fabulously frustrating but loveable. Siobhan Vincent’s Lily is cranky and cantankerous, but relatable and warm - an excellent performance. Nigel Goodwin is strong as Michael, and while he might not move as smoothly as we would expect from a character who was a professional dancer - he is otherwise convincing and likeable. 

The dancing, an integral part of the production, is nicely handled - with choreography from Michael Peretz appropriate and effective.

Unfortunately this very worthy production does not appear to be getting the audiences that it deserves.  It is well worth the look if you can manage to get there in its last few days.

Kimberley Shaw