In 2005 Blackbird Productions, with the support of Playing Australia, Arts Victoria and Regional Arts Victoria, was able to take the relatively unknown Sydney based stage production, BPM beatsperminute and re-invent it into a nationally recognised product presented to over 25,000 people throughout Australia.
In September 2005, Blackbird Productions were recognised for their work on the tour with four nominations at the annual Drover awards for National Touring, securing the award for 'Road Crew Excellence' at the awards ceremony at Old Parliament House in Canberra.
ABOUT
BPM beatsperminute is the next generation in performance tap.
Smooth and groove approved – BPM beatsperminute is a fusion of exhilarating tap set to an original score performed by an ensemble of Australia’s most talented and sought after musicians and dancers.
The show that has been hailed as the ‘next big thing to hit Australia’, BPM beatsperminute intertwines tap, vocals, bass, guitar and drums, layering live rhythms to invent a new interpretation of the art of tap. With an original score of percussive jazz through to funk, rock and rap, the performance features a unique full body style of smooth, sophisticated tap. Performing in and around the audience, BPM beatsperminute challenges the conventions of audience interaction whilst fusing the ideas of musicians, vocals, rap and tap.
This is intricate and entertaining work that can be truly enjoyed by everyone.
REVIEWS
‘Yes BPM is innovative, cheeky and energetic. There is nothing like it in our theatres today’ Herald Sun
‘A breath of fresh, very cool, air... could easily work in New York or London’ Sunday Herald Sun
‘BPM has exploded onto the scene with their unique concept that has unwittingly redefined the boundaries of live performance’ – Muse Magazine
SEASONS
Friday 1 April ~ Saturday 2 July 2005 - Australian Tour
Tuesday 1 November ~ Friday 4 November 2005 - The Arts Centre, Melbourne
Sunday 21 November 2004 - Australian Dance Awards, Sydney
Wednesday 10 November 2004 - McDonald's Global Conference, Sydney
Tuesday 2 November ~ Friday 5 November 2004 - The Arts Centre, Melbourne
Tuesday 2 March ~ Sunday 14 March 2004 - Fringe Festival, Adelaide
Friday 10 February ~ Saturday 21 February 2004 - Midsumma Festival, Melbourne
CAST
PRODUCTION TEAM
Nathan Sheens ~ Dancer
Created by Glyn Gray, Nathan Sheens & Brett Canning
