Wow… Just wow. This performance was everything I could have dreamed of and more—sultry, elegant, sexy, playful, classy, and utterly effortless. This immersive, high-energy show delivered a dazzling blend of Latin R&B, passion, and jaw-dropping choreography. Backed by a live band of exceptionally talented musicians and vocalists, the dancers told a story while also showcasing their extraordinary talent and unique style. And boy, did the crowd eat it up!
Produced by Elysian Creative, a dynamic Perth-based dance brand known for its expertise in choreography, production, and entertainment, El Ritmo was a masterclass in performance artistry.
From the moment I stepped into the Big Top, the atmosphere was electric. The band was already setting the tone, and the crowd buzzed with anticipation before the show had even begun.
The soundtrack, featuring hits from the late ’90s to early 2000s, was pure nostalgia, transporting me straight back to my childhood. Songs like “I’m a Slave 4 U” by Britney Spears, “Insatiable” by Darren Hayes, “Fallin’” by Alicia Keys, and, of course, the iconic “It Wasn’t Me” by Shaggy were perfectly chosen to complement the love stories unfolding on stage. One standout moment was Amy Ehlers’ breathtaking rendition of “Fallin’”. She did Alicia Keys justice—her voice was mesmerizing, and from the very first note, I was completely captivated.
Where do I even begin with the dancers? They were unbelievably versatile, seamlessly transitioning between Latin-inspired jazz, ballet, breakdancing, and hip-hop throughout the show. And let’s talk about their stamina—absolutely insane! The four lead female dancers executed lightning-fast costume changes, only to reappear moments later for another high-energy number without so much as a hint of exhaustion. It was next-level professionalism and athleticism. They oozed confidence, commanding the stage with undeniable presence. Their performance quality was nothing short of mesmerizing—every movement was executed with precision, charisma, and effortless charm. They didn’t just dance; they engaged. Locking eyes with audience members, they pulled us into their world, making every moment feel intimate and electrifying. It was impossible to look away.
The ‘madame’ of the underground, Tita Valencia (aka Monique Wilson), brought the show together with her lovable, quirky energy. Part femme fatale, part flamboyant, kooky showwoman, she seamlessly tied the storylines together, adding charm and cohesion to the performance.
The show ended with a wild, party-like atmosphere, and you could tell no one wanted the night to end. The Underground: El Ritmo wasn’t just a performance; it was an experience—a celebration of rhythm, passion, and pure showmanship that left the audience breathless and begging for more. Elysian Creative has once again set the bar impossibly high, proving that when it comes to dance, storytelling, and spectacle, they don’t just meet expectations—they shatter them.
SINEAD HARTE
The Underground: El Ritmo was presented by Elysian Creative at FRINGE WORLD 2025. For more information about this past event, click here.
