Classique dancers to battle for bragging rights next Saturday

Classique dancer Meleesa Payne

Classique is probably out of ideas or perhaps the time has come to determine who flows better with the choreography, hence the upcoming show, ‘Battle of the Sexes’.

John Reman and Leslyn Lashley prepare to do battle
John Reman and Leslyn Lashley prepare to do battle

Battle of the Sexes is the third production of the year and it is being hyped as the “show not to miss”, particularly the second half of it. It is the latter segment where the battle for supremacy in the dance school is expected to take place.

Leslyn Lashley, a member of Classique Dance Company, told The Scene on Friday the battle is not only for bragging rights but also due recognition. She said male dancers have often boasted about being stronger and appealing more to an audience. However, she said the female dancers “who work hard” rarely receive the credit because women largely follow Classique.

For the two-segment show, Director Clive Prowell has planned a Christmas-inspired first half featuring the younger members of the dance school, and for the second half he will let the dancers go head-to-head against each other.

“The battle is the second half and while we are hoping that women will come and support the female dancers in Classique, we plan to earn that support,” Lashley said. She disclosed the women of Classique are up for the challenge and intend to “put an end to all the talk”.

Classique dancer Meleesa Payne
Classique dancer Meleesa Payne

At the end of the battle, the audience will decide who won based on the performances. Lashley said the guys to watch are Ivor Williams, Paul Charles, Travis Bowen and John Reman. However, she noted that younger male dancers are stepping up. On the women’s side, those to watch are Lashley, Anastasia Richards and Melessa Payne.

The one-night only show is set for December 5 at the National Cultural Centre. Previously Classique staged two productions – The Edge and Pitch Black. (ianaseales@yahoo.com)