Dave Brubeck studied under Darius Milhaud and his cool, ‘west coast’ sound has always had classical overtones for me, with it’s fascination for irregular time signatures and sharp, smart harmonies. Saxophonist Paul Desmond’s famous composition lends its name to this twenty-five minute ballet danced to jazz quartet.

The ballet was a long time coming; I’d already had a go at Desmond’s Take Five and Brubeck’s Unsquare Dance, but it contrasted well with the bigger Ellington sound when performed alongside those other jazz ballets. Created for five each of the most accomplished men and women in Birmingham Royal Ballet, Take Five has its own cool, understated style of virtuosity.  

‘This hits the spot immediately’
THE GUARDIAN

‘A laid-back, elegant ballet that takes life calmly in its stride to the rhythm of Dave Brubeck’s iconic music’
THE PRESS, YORK

‘Classy and cool’
BIRMINGHAM MAIL