The Grind Date is a 1½ hour dance performance which consists of five separate dance pieces, presented by the Heel Ruby Dancers. Each section is individually themed and stands on its own without any clear link between each piece.

The first piece, choreographed and performed by Emily Campbell and Zahra Killeen-Chance, is exceptionally striking as it touches on the pressures surrounding woman in today’s society. The movements are sharp yet rag-doll-like and it is highly physical while almost completely void of conventional dance movement. The majority of this piece is danced a cappella requiring a huge amount of skilled synchronisation from the two dancers. They succeeded in being perfectly in sync which results in a unique and effective dance piece. 

The next piece is very alternative and quite hard to follow at times. Choreographed by Anna Bate, it looks into the inner psyche of human beings. It has themes of adult v child, good v bad and a strong representation of sexuality. More explanation in the programme is needed as it is very hard to determine the symbolism of much of what goes on in this piece and gain an overall understanding of it.

The third piece, choreographed and performed by Emily Campbell, is very slow moving with little movement throughout. While it is clear what is being conveyed and is at times very effective, it moves so slowly that it loses effect and in turn the attention of some of the audience members. 

Point-Blank, choreographed and performed by Zahra Killeen-Chance, is both unique and thought provoking as it delves into the differences between the projected external self and the internal self. The effective use of pre-recorded visual media helps to display the intention of the piece. 

The concluding piece, danced and choreographed by Alana Yee, is an insight into what it is to be a Kiwi. It comes from her individual experience as a 2^nd generation Chinese-New Zealander. This piece touches on serious emotions, but also has comic elements, which were appreciated by the audience. Her work contains nudity that is tastefully done and adds to the natural development of the piece (as opposed to dancing naked for the ‘shock factor’ as can often be the case). 

Some of the pieces stand-alone, while others are not so strong and their intentions not clear. This show had an amateur feel as a result of backstage noise and the inefficiency and causal nature of the set up between each performance. However, the dancers we’re clearly professional in their execution, which more than made up for it. 

It has to be mentioned that this is not a show for everyone. Several people left before the end. However, the remaining crowd responded enthusiastically at the conclusion of the evening. 

There are only two nights remaining for this show for those considering attending. 
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