For once a great TV programme about older people last night (in Alan Yentob’s BBC2 Imagine series) presented in a way that was neither patronising nor voyeuristic. The programme followed the Sadlers Wells Company of Elders Contemporary Dance troupe – a group of 25 or so ordinary men and women of average age 79 - through their preparations for a new dance performance at Sadlers Wells.
Not only were the dancers themselves entertaining and inspirational, but their commitment, attitude and sheer bonhomie was a joy to behold. Better still the audience who watched their eventual performance were obviously moved, as had been their choreographer. Not by the fact that older people can dance, but by the extra element their life experiences added to their performance, underlying that dance is not just about physical beauty and accuracy but also about creativity and soul.
Definitely worth tracking down if you missed it even if you’re not a great dance afficionado. Next week’s programme topic also bodes well: David Hockney at age 70. Watch that space.
