Russell Maliphant’s ‘Vortex’ is inspired by Abstract Expressionism, in particular the works, and processes, of Jackson Pollock. Experience it at Dance City this June.

If, as a choreographer, you’re going to let yourself be influenced by a painter, then Jackson Pollock is probably your fella. Up close, his work is extraordinary, and when you’re standing in front of one of his big canvases, you can’t help but feel the energy that went into producing it. (Indeed, footage of Pollock stalking his canvases is probably among the most famous ‘artists at work’ clips ever filmed.) For ‘Vortex’, the choreographer Russell Maliphant uses movement, light and shadow to create a visually rich journey with the exceptional dancers of the Russell Maliphant Dance Company. The company – established in 1996 – has won numerous awards including two Olivier awards, three South Bank Show awards and four Critics’ Circle National Dance awards, and ‘Vortex’ remains one of their most awe-inspiring pieces. RM

Vortex, Thursday 22 June, Dance City, Newcastle, 7.30pm, £18 (students £14.50), dancecity.co.uk