Review: Northern Ballet, Gentleman Jack, Leeds Grand Theatre

LEEDS’ acclaimed Northern Ballet brings to the stage the story of Halifax born Anne Lister (1791-1840) better known by her given moniker - Gentleman Jack.

Only after Anne’s death were her volumes of coded diaries de-coded and a secret life laid bare. Anne had lived, loved and dressed to her heart’s desire and not as 19th century society expected of her. The prolific diarist and shrewd businesswoman who defied every social convention experienced pleasure - and sorrow - with her female lovers. When not travelling in Europe, Anne lived with her beloved family at Shibden Hall in the hills outside Halifax.

Six years before her death, Anne was joined by the heiress Ann Walker. Following a symbolic marriage ceremony, the couple were committed to living together as wife and wife. All this happened getting on for 200 years ago and yet powerfully resonates with society today. Gentleman Jack is an icon and role model for the LBGT community.

Her extraordinary life has inspired biographies, novels, a hit TV series and now, for the very first time, a full-length ballet brilliantly created and staged in the heart of Leeds. Federico Bonelli, artistic director of Northern Ballet, has made a bold choice for his first full-length commission for thirty six dancers and NB’s creative and technical teams.

The new ballet is beautifully choreographed by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa who creates more lifting movements for female characters than we are accustomed to seeing. Gemma Coutts as Anne Lister/Gentleman Jack commands the stage in a remarkable portrayal which combines stamina, tenderness, humour and determination. She is partnered by Rachael Gillespie as Ann Walker. Their sensual love scene is sensitively directed. During the interval I heard at least one audience member utter the word ‘steamy’.

Peter Salem’s kaleidoscopic musical score perfectly captures the moods and shifting locations of the story. Thank goodness it is played live in the Grand Theatre pit by an instrumental ensemble of fifteen musicians conducted by Daniel Parkinson, associate conductor of Northern Ballet.

Last Saturday’s triumphant world premiere of Gentleman Jack was given a rapturous reception from a full house.

Playing at Leeds Grand until 14th March; then touring to Sheffield, Nottingham, London (Sadlers Wells): Norwich, Salford, and Bradford (Alhambra).