Somerset House and Dance Umbrella together are presenting Vertical by Le Patin Libre, the Canadian ice-dance quintet, performing at the London venue from 12–16 January 2016. Hailing from over the Atlantic, Le Patin Libre will bring a ground-breaking, contemporary ice-dance performance to the Somerset House’s ice rink.
Vertical is one of Le Patin Libre’s acclaimed pieces from its award-winning 2014 double-bill which was presented as part of Dance Umbrella last year, Just five nights only will see the group descend on Somerset House’s ice rink following the end of Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason in January.
Founded by Alexandre Hamel in 2005, Le Patin Libre is a five-strong troupe of professional, prize-winning skaters who have continued to blaze a unique trail on the ice with their innovative, high-octane style of ice-dancing. From humble beginnings creating routines on the frozen ponds and canals of their hometown of Montréal ten years ago, their witty, inspired and creative performances have since gone on to win critical acclaim around the world.
Le Patin Libre break the mould by challenging the conventions of traditional figure-skating through an experimental type of ice-rink performance art, which places emphasis on a liberated approach to ice-skating virtuosity and draws influence from theatre, urban dance, tap and circus skills. Through Vertical, the five artists of Le Patin Libre celebrate the harmony of their skating family, while pushing the boundaries of what is physically possible on the ice. They place emphasis on the unique choreographic potential of gliding, and look set to delight both dance and theatre audiences alike in a dazzling display.