Yerma was a moving interpretation of Lorca’s classic piece about a woman trapped within an oppressive marriage, yearning for a child which cannot be conceived.

The marriage and society bear down on her until she resolves to rebel and discover her own happiness.

Amina Khayyam Dance Company, with zeroculture, created a moving dance-theatre performance, building a strong narrative with Kathak dance.

Supported by a strong chorus of three female dancers, Khayyam blended striking theatrical moments with the fluid arms and strong footwork of this traditional dance form.

The chorus weaved the story around Yerma, taking the form of young women and the reviled husband, keeping a clear sense of unity whilst allowing their individual personalities to speak through the movements.

There were hints of flamenco in Yerma’s choreography as the Spanish and Indian worlds collided brilliantly to bring the lost and fiery character to life.

The production was set in inner-city Britain, however the performance failed to communicate this setting beyond the multi-ethnic casting of the chorus; more could have been done to tease out the parallels with our society.

A successful and haunting piece with high-intensity performances and beautiful live musical accompaniment.