Last weekend, I was given the opportunity to see the amazing show, Shaping Sound at the Jubilee Auditorium, thanks to Kids Up Front Calgary! A dance performance, choreographed by Emmy Award winning choreographer Travis Wall. The Shaping Sound dance company was originally established in 2012 and is based out of Los Angeles. Travis Wall is not the only notable cast member from this production, as many dancers have performed with a verity of celebrities, such as Janet Jackson and Carly Rae Jepsen. Not only that, but many of the cast have also been featured in shows such as Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance.
The first act of Shaping Sound takes viewers on a journey with a young woman (played by Mallauri Esquibel), through her dreams. The show opens with the woman seeming lost, unable to dance in sync with the other dancers. As the story continues, the young woman’s negative relationship with her lover is brought to the surface, expressed through a beautiful bedroom dance sequence. Many mystifying dream-like dance numbers enchant the audience along with unique elements of a verity of dance styles, such as jazz and cabaret. However, the show primarily focusing on a more contemporary style. Dreams and desires are exploited in sensual scenes, which are not only excellently performed, but help push the boundaries of movement.
A particular dance number which captivated the audience was Shaping Sound’s rendition of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody. The familiar anthem, light show and outstanding dance moves, introduced the second act, and had the audience cheering throughout, creating an amazing atmosphere which ran through the auditorium. The second act continued to amaze, as unique dance numbers such continued to wow the audience all the way until the end, as a once lost young woman finds the courage to leave her relationship and continue on with her life and dreams. The final dance number inspires viewers, as she is able to dance in sync with the other dancers in an outstanding dance number.
Shaping Sound’s tag line is dance reimagined, and is definitely fitting. Throughout the entirety of the show I was impressed with the unique style of dance presented to me, along with some familiar pieces, which surfaced a feeling of nostalgia. As someone who is not a regular spectator of dance performances, I was on the edge of my seat for the beginning until the end, as were the rest of the audience.
Unfortunately Shaping Sound was only in Calgary from January 15 to January 16th however, the North American-wide tour is far from over. You can find the full list of tour dates and locations here.