There are several sayings, such as life can be stranger than fiction or you couldn’t make it up. These, and others, apply to Gentleman Jack, currently being presented at The Lowry’s Lyric Theatre by Northern Ballet in a co-production with Finnish National Opera and Ballet.
It is a remarkable realisation of the life of Yorkshirewoman Anne Lister (the eponymous Gentleman Jack), a 19th-century landowner and industrialist often regarded as the first modern lesbian. Known for her unconventional lifestyle and masculine style of dress, she documented her life and romantic relationships in great detail in her diaries, some of which were written in code. As the online programme notes observe, she loved as fiercely as she lived.
Her story has previously been reimagined through novels, biographies and even a television series, but this is the first time it has been brought to life through dance. With such an extraordinary subject at its heart, it’s hardly surprising that this newly commissioned ballet absolutely blows you away. Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s choreography is superb, while Peter Salem’s score is equally impressive, occasionally evoking the minimalist style of Philip Glass.
Dramaturg Clare Croft and choreography consultant Jemima Brown bring the story vividly to life, revealing Anne’s strengths and vulnerabilities through a series of beautifully crafted dance sequences.
Christopher Ash’s set design works exceptionally well, transforming the stage from coal mine to office, dining room, bedroom, and open countryside in a matter of seconds. The use of a treadmill is particularly ingenious. Louise Flanagan’s costumes capture the period perfectly, while Daniel Parkinson draws superb playing from the orchestra.
On the night we attended, Anne was performed by Gemma Coutts, who effortlessly conveyed both the character’s haughty self-assurance and her moments of tenderness. At times it felt as though Anne herself had taken possession of her.
Her two principal lovers, performed by Saeka Shirai and Alessandra Bramante, were equally accomplished. The seduction scenes had both conviction and sensitivity, though there was never any doubt as to who was in control.
It is a large cast, with performers doubling roles where required, and the entire company gives its all throughout.
Everyone involved has collaborated to create something genuinely special, and I suspect that Anne herself would have been flattered by the result.
Gentleman Jack continues at The Lowry until June 6th and moves to the Alhambra Bradford in September. A sample of what to expect is here, and a fascinating background of how the ballet came into being is here. Do go if you can. Tickets
Paul Schofield for Canal Street Online.
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