A Thrilling Start: GEMS Dazzles on Opening Night of Brisbane Festival
The 2025 Brisbane Festival opened with a groundbreaking contemporary ballet trilogy, GEMS, shared in full for the first time outside Los Angeles. This world premiere season was one of the festival highlights programmed by Artistic Director Louise Bezzina, who described the performance as “an absolutely thrilling show to watch,” warmly welcoming the LA Dance Project’s landmark work to Brisbane.
GEMS unfolded over three distinct parts: Reflections, Hearts and Arrows, and On the Other Side. The trilogy was choreographed by Benjamin Millepied, with music by David Lang performed by pianist Philip Glaze and a string quartet.
What made this performance remarkable was its precision, intensity, and emotional depth. Every dancer brought extraordinary strength and control to Millepied’s complex choreography, which was elevated further by the haunting and immersive score. I was especially captivated by Japanese dancer Shu Kinouchi, whose commanding stage presence and fluid movement made him a standout. That said, the entire cast contributed equally powerful moments, weaving together a tapestry of beauty and raw emotion that resonated deeply with the audience.
If there is one minor critique, it would be the pacing. With two intermissions, the work at times felt slightly too long and could have benefited from a tighter structure. Still, this is a small note in what was otherwise a stunning and unforgettable evening.
Brisbane audiences are fortunate to witness GEMS as part of the Festival program, and this premiere season runs until 7 September.
Caroline Russo Review
Photo
