Mariposa – Sheffield University Drama Studio

Libretto: Karthika Nair

Composer: Luis Miguel Cobo

Choreographer: Carlos Pons Guerra

As part of its UK tour,Mariposalands at Sheffield University Drama Studio, a lovely intimate venue that has began to programme more dance as part of its EnableUS season of shows.Mariposais a queer retelling of Puccini’s opera Madama Butterfly,following Mariposa as he falls in love. Once he discovers the feelings aren’t fully reciprocated, he goes through a process to change his physical appearance to become more like the women who his love interest has fallen for.

Karthika Nair’s narrative feels very relevant to today’s conversation around sex, relationships and gender identity. It explores what true beauty really is. Luis Miguel Cobo’s music is a slightly odd mix. There are some lovely classical pieces, but often they sound a little strange – almost like there’s two clashing pieces being played simultaneously. There are also some Spanish musical numbers which add a different tempo and style to the show.

Carlos Pons Guerra choreographs some wonderful routines. There isn’t necessarily a consistent style throughout, but each piece is enjoyable. There is some impressive ballet dance, whilst he dips his toe into more hispanic dance styles as well. Barnaby Booth’s lighting leaves a lot of the stage in darkness, meaning much of the time to the dancers’ facial expressions can’t be seen which is a shame given many of them are very expressive performers. Ryan Dawson Laight’s costumes and set are simple – they work well, they are lovely to look at but there is no sense of grounding in terms of a specific location or time period.

Miles Kearley is a wonderful leading man. The audience eventually warms to him, and Kearley really captures Mariposa’s sadness and pain. It was a shame he didn’t have a more extended solo moment earlier on in the show though to really give more insight into who the character is, beyond the relationships he has. Elle Fierce is wonderful as the somewhat intimidating, somewhat mysterious Madame Gertudis. She gives high kicks effortlessly and leads larger company routines confidently.

Daniel Baines is the highlight of this production as Preston. He delivers his romantic dance routines beautifully. Baines and Kearley’s routines really develop their relationship, capturing the struggles of queer relationships as well as the joy of them. Baines also has some beautiful routines with Holly Saw who is a truly excellent ballet dancer, delivering en pointe routines splendidly.

After a slow start,Mariposais an interesting exploration through dance of love and relationships, with the story’s queer angle bringing it completely up to date.

Reviewed on 10th February 2025.