Commissioned by 'The Movement', a partnership between Birmingham Hippodrome, The Lowry and Sadler's Wells #JeSuis is a striking and, at times, uncomfortable dance performance exploring oppression through political, social and media influence.

Choreographer, Aakash Odedra, is known internationally for his powerful solo contemporary dance performances. This time he has assembled an ensemble featuring talented young Turkish dancers who take us on a journey with emotion so heightened and all encompassing that you find yourself transfixed from the first step.

#JeSuis is visually stunning piece, comprising a cast of seven who are sensational from the get-go. walking into the darkened auditorium, it's fair to say that the majority of the audience had absolutely no idea what was about to happen in front of them. Sure, they knew it was a dance performance and they'd probably read the synopsis and reasoned with themselves about the content of the show. I'm absolutely convinced, however, that they were in no way expecting the magnitude of the infectious performance that filled the Patrick Centre with a soundscape that became all encompassing.

From a visual perspective, JeSuis has some of the most exquisitely beautiful use of lighting that I've seen in any performance for a long time. The inclusion of shadow and the absolute absence of any desire to adhere to convention only added to the narrative of the story.

What's most important - and very much the case - is that #JeSuis makes you question yourself and your understanding of social unrest. We all hear about the issues in countries like Turkey and maybe we put it at an arms length and into the 'not our problem' pile. For me, this production made you sit up and take notice - and should be applauded for a stunning evening of entertainment.

#JeSuis runs until Friday 16th February at Birmingham Hippodrome.