onstop, riveting action filled Kingsbury Hall last week as “A Few Good Men… DANCIN’” took the stage. The all-male ensemble delivered a spectacular performance full of heart-pounding selections, proving not only their ability to dance, but that underneath it all, they really are just men… a few good men, that is.

The opening sequence was “Boxing”—what could be more manly than that? Yet these men knew how to box with style. Sporting red and blue shorts, their huge leaps and swift turns empowered them with the right moves to win any match that came their way.

A smooth transition into the next selection called “Blues” introduced us to the businessman, complete with suit, tie and briefcase. Quirky moves accented the blues music that accompanied them. The real highlight of this section was a lyrical jazz solo danced by Dorrell Martin. His soulful expression and long lines were mesmerizing and the backdrop of nighttime stars truly transformed the theater to another place. A fun, lighthearted group dance was a joyful ending to the selection.

“Martial Arts” seemed to be the audience favorite. The first part was slow and demonstrated beautiful, calm control. The second part brought drums, acrobatics and incredible strength and flexibility as two men engaged in a routine reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil. The only problem was that it seemed too short.

“Latin” really showed off the dancers’ skills. Up until now, the men had impressed us with individual cases of strength, flexibility, musicality and expression, but it all came together in “Latin.” Dressed in black pants and loose, colored shirts, they dove right in with a scintillating display of flying feet, shaking hips and fascinating rhythm. Jeff Amsden’s choreography brought out the best in each man— excellent dance training was evident. The Cuban, African and Brazilian themes added to the dancers’ charisma, with a tango being an appropriate fit for the entertaining fight scene between two of the men.

The energy seemed to be somewhat lagging in “Swing Set.” However, seeing as all 15 cast members were in every selection and performing incredible feats nonstop, this lagging was understandable. It is actually quite amazing that they were able to keep going. “Swing Set” incorporated more sports, such as basketball, and playground activities like playing on the monkey bars and bouncing on pogo sticks. Lively swing music enhanced the athletic atmosphere.

“Body and Spirit” was a kaleidoscope of animal-like figures and had a tribal feel to it. The modern dance style fit the spiritual theme of the section well and showed off many creative, choreographic moments.

The final selection was “1970s.” The good old days of disco, flashy shirts and a mirror ball came alive as the men boogied the night away to (thankfully) unfamiliar tunes of the ’70s.

“A Few Good Men…DANCIN’” gave men a chance to shine, and shine they did. While the concept of not seeing any women on stage took some getting used to, it was refreshing to see the men actually doing something besides acting as pedestals. Their invigorating energy and love for performing was represented in this production, along with some pretty remarkable dancing.
marissa@red-mag.com