We Should Have Never Walked on the Moon: A Reflection on Rambert x (LA)HORDE at Southbank Centre
Image courtesy of Rambert
An ambitious, immersive sensory production, We Should Have Never Walked on the Moon pulls audiences into a world where movement, music, and space collide. This is not a performance you sit and watch, it is something you navigate, stumble through, and discover; a journey of highs and lows, moments that may not speak to you, and others that strike so deeply they pull you to your feet in applause.
Southbank Centre’s Leap Into Cultural Evolution
The Southbank Centre describes its involvement in this production as a reflection of “who we are, and who we want to be.” That sentiment positions one of London’s most storied cultural institutions as not only a presenter of art, but an active participant in shaping the future of cultural storytelling. By spotlighting underrepresented perspectives, the Centre signals a choice — perhaps even a risk — to align itself with history’s cultural evolution rather than simply observe from the sidelines.
This partnership is as much about supporting bold dance companies as it is about supporting institutions willing to take up the challenge of transformation in the arts and entertainment landscape.
Image courtesy of Rambert
A Heightened State of Observation
Part of the intrigue of We Should Have Never Walked on the Moon is that you are never just watching the dancers — you are also watching the watchers. In this environment, audience members become part of the performance. You notice yourself noticing. What are you drawn to? Who are you drawn to? It becomes a meditation in observation — of others, and of yourself.
Image courtesy of Rambert
The Dancers Become the Movement
The evening delivers on its promise of movement at the highest level. The choreography is compelling, but it’s the dancers’ full embodiment that elevates it. They don’t simply perform to music; they become the movement, dissolving the line between body and choreography.
Among the night’s many jewels, the Grime Ballet stands out. A riveting collision of classical form and hip hop energy, it is performed by athletes as much as dancers. From the pulse of the music to the precision of the choreography and the sheer physicality on display, it is a striking highlight, and a strong recommendation for anyone attending.
A Treasure Hunt of Performance
Experiencing the evening is like embarking on a treasure hunt. At times you may feel adrift, unsure of where to go next. At other moments, you stumble upon a performance that envelops you entirely. Each discovery is a gem, and the joy lies in the journey.
Our advice? Keep your treasure map close, and let your energy guide you. Whether you manage to experience everything or just a handful of moments, the night guarantees a worthwhile experience. Most importantly, allow yourself to have fun, so that when you leave, you carry not only memories of movement and sound, but gratitude for having chosen to be part of it.
Image courtesy of Rambert
Final Reflections
We Should Have Never Walked on the Moon is ambitious and captivating. Congratulations to Rambert, (LA)HORDE, and the Southbank Centre for a bold and successful opening night.
The production runs at the Southbank Centre until 6 September. Tickets are available via the Southbank Centre website.
