Hi, I haven't grown this species, but most species tolerate hard pruning, and break easily from old wood, maybe someone who has grown it will be able to give you a better answer, Derek.

I ask because there is a lot of stem with no shoots on it at the base of the plant and all the growth is at the top.

Hi, I think if it were mine, I'd take a chance, and cut it back, if it looks a bit of a mess at the moment, you have nothing to lose, Derek.

I could lose the whole plant if it does not reshoot from old wood. Never managed to get cuttings to root and grow on either.

Could you cut just one or two of the stems and see if they shoot before risking the lot?

Owdb - try a PM to spritzhenry as I think she grows this shrub