2Faced Dance Company: Out of his Skin (Tour – Salford)

Out of his Skin begins with a man sitting on a concrete looking structure with three floors. A light bulb goes on and off as he clutches his knees and moves around. The harsh flickering light coupled with the swaying makes uncomfortable viewing.

It sets the scene for the rest of the performance. The piece is described as a reaction to people taking up extreme sports and pushing themselves to the limit to find release from their stressful lives.

Six dancers move across the stage in formation, they move jerkily and aggressively. The tower at the side is used for pull-ups and occasionally they drop to the floor and do push-ups.

Anthony Murphy provides a pounding techno beat, which remains relentless throughout. The dancers demonstrate amazing strength and agility, as they appear to fight angrily against each other.

There is no denying their talent and the strong choreography. It captures the theme perfectly, even if the overall effect is just a little too intense.

– Joanna Ing