Performance
Grand Rapids Ballet: “Diablo Rojo” by James Sofranko, “While Away“ by Jennifer Archibald, “Sherlock” by Penny Saunders

Place
Peter Martin Wege Theatre, Grand Rapids, Michigan, October 24, 2025

Words
Steve Sucato for Fjord Review

Move over, Matthew Bourne, there is a new voice in theatrical dance plays. Choreographer Penny Saunders’ bespoke production of “Sherlock,” performed by Grand Rapids Ballet, was not only a triumph in bringing literature’s favorite super sleuth to the stage in dance form, but is an early contender as one of the 2025-26 dance season’s very best.

The headliner in GRB’s box office record-setting triple bill, “Sherlock,” was preceded by GRB artistic director James Sofranko’s “Diablo Rojo,” which opened the production with a bang. 

Danced to lively music by the Mexican acoustic guitar duo, Rodrigo y Gabriela, the work for two men and two women was a Spanish-flavored celebration of showy, technical dancing. Playful banter between the dancers gave rise to machismo-driven jumps and leaps by the men and flirtatious, powerhouse turns by the women. The brief but brilliant contemporary ballet work left the audience wanting more.

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