The Move Through Life Dance Company was the first adults’ only performance company in Adelaide and last appeared in the Fringe in 2014. I really had no idea what to expect from Windswept but that is often a major factor in one’s enjoyment of the many forms of entertainment available at the Adelaide Fringe.

This year’s offering is a fabulous melange of dance, music, light and sound which evokes powerful emotional responses. The juxtaposition of Beth Hart’s rocking blues, two of Chopin’s Nocturnes plus Nina Simone’s intense rough edged voice was a delight. The fusion of this varied music with Jo McDonald’s choreography, embracing elements of classical ballet, flamenco and contemporary dance, produced a performance brimful of wonderful dancing, grace, artistry and sheer athleticism from the dancers.

As an older, plus size woman, it was wonderfully refreshing to see ‘dancers ranging in age from 19 to 49 and size 6 to 22’. The main costumes were simple silver shifts which flattered all the women’s myriad shapes and sizes. I particularly enjoyed the flamenco dances which cleverly used fringed scarves as both an item of costume and an integral part of the dance. The light hearted mood combined with a more classical balletic style, presented in black tops and tutus, was also a highlight for me.

As someone who works on amateur theatrical productions, I know how much work goes into such a polished performance but I do regret with only four shows, not enough people will get to see and enjoy this production.