Presented by Devious Adelaide
Reviewed 18 February 2022
It’s time for a taste of dominance and submission for Adelaide audiences, though this show is not one to go into without consideration as real pain will play out before you, but for those keen to explore new things this will provide a riveting late night at the Fringe.
A hint of real-life Fifty Shades of Grey is what you get in this sexually charged, sexually fluid and rather impressive show. From unbelievable rope play and mesmerising body movements, to instances of wincing pain that of course also contain pleasure, there is much to take in within DOMINANCE + submission.
You will see real pain in this show, and see the real reactions to it, so that must be considered before booking tickets as for some they may feel uncomfortable. Intimidating whips, forceful hands on throats, hair-pulling and complete physical submission within dominating role play is what you get in this late-night production. For those who are willing to step out of their comfort zone and witness something quite different (and often condemned), the experience will be thrilling.
It makes sense that the performance takes place in Ukiyo – a smaller and intimate space for quite an intimate subject. The round stage also allows for plenty of viewing from the audience, especially when performers are suspended and spinning in the air. The atmosphere is full of suspense and sexual charge thanks to the confident performers in their skimpy lingerie, leather harnesses, intimidating whips, black eye masks, skin-tight leggings, ripped clothes and, of course, collars and leashes. One rather distracting aspect which could be seen as to detract from this engulfing atmosphere was the robotic narration, as a more sensual voice would have worked more cohesively with the rest of the show and sexually-lyrical songs.
One of the most impressive aspects of the show is the Shibari section (contemporary form of rope bondage that originated in Japan) as ropes are carefully, but also forcefully, wrapped around a body in intricate detail and with speed that is astonishing. Every loop, every pull, every binding has clearly been well thought out and practiced over and over again. The end result is spectacular, mildly uncomfortable and applause-worthy, as aerial suspension takes this part of the show to a whole new level.
The performers all show confidence in their actions, but it is early in the season and once the nerves of performing, and performing something so intimate, have started to dissipate, and the performers fully focus on what they’re doing as though the audience isn’t there, this will be a riveting experience at this year’s Fringe.
Reviewed by Georgina Smerd
Venue: Ukiyo at Gluttony
Season: 18 & 19 Feb, 4 & 5 March 2022
Duration: 50 mins
Tickets: $20 – $50
Bookings: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/dominance-submission-af2022
Rating out of 5: 3
#Adelaide #ADLFringe #ADLFringe2022
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