AS WINTER approached, anticipation rose to fever pitch as two of the country’s most exciting choreographers were, coincidentally, set to deliver new works in the same season — giving the impression of a head-to-head between rival forces in dance.

While Wayne McGregor’s Multiverse drew an intricate interface of mathematical counterpoints between abstraction and pinpoint exactitude from dancers Steven McRae and Paul Kay of the Royal Ballet, Akram Kahn’s Giselle provided an exquisite contrast by way of framing expression and gesture within emotionally charged, allegorical dance motifs.

Multiverse hit the mark as transcendental experience to a soundscape by Steve Reich at the Royal Opera House, while Khan’s Giselle at Sadler’s Wells, with a memorable new score from Vincenzo Lamagna, sent the heart pounding. There was a devastating performance of technique and strength from Tamara Rojo — this year’s wow-factor.