This was more than a dance recital; this was a brilliant showcase of a sensational athletic art form
Presented by: Australian Calisthenics Theatre Company
Reviewed: 29 June, 2024
It takes a lot of dedication, hard-work, team work and commitment to produce a brilliant theatrical production. That is exactly what the creatives and cast of A Symphony have done. The Australian Calisthenics Theatre Company have produced a breathtaking show that sees a fusion of artistry and athleticism. This two-hour extravaganza is performed to an impressive soundtrack, played live by a sensational band under the musical direction of Kym Purling.
I must make a confession before I go much further. Up until this performance, I didn’t know that much about calisthenics as an art form or sport. I only really knew of it as that event that happened at the Royalty Theatre on Angas St when I would be working on shows at The Arts Theatre next door. I need to apologise, as it’s such a graceful and mesmerising creative outlet that had the entire Festival Theatre captivated. The strength, precision, flexibility and endurance is next level.
A Symphony showcased the athletic skills of over sixty young dancers. Whilst it was programmed as having a principal cast and ensemble, each of these dancers had their moment to be seen. The synchronisation in group routines was breathtaking. Their execution was precise. This is a credit to not only each of the performers, but to their choreographers who have drilled these routines to the professional standard that we saw.
The program was packed with routine after routine. The carefully curated soundtrack that accompanied each routine showcased the versatility of calisthenics as an art form. The program was broken into musical brackets that featured hit songs from the genres of latin, rock, and pop with stunning choreographed routines to match. A standout routine would have had to be the reflection piece. The more senior dancers wheeled a frame on stage and as they danced towards it, younger members of the ensemble appeared as though reflected through the frame. This was a very moving piece showing the passing of knowledge from one generation of dancers to the next — a piece that will stay with me for a while.
The incredible Kym Purling led a tight seven-piece band from the back of the stage. They moved seamlessly from piece to piece providing a vibrant musical landscape for the talented cast. The band was enhanced by vocalists Callum Campbell and Chloe Castledine. Guest vocalist Tim Campbell brought his wealth of showmanship to A Symphony, but it is a shame there wasn’t more from Tim. His divine vocals were the perfect choice.
A Symphony only had a short, two-performance run, but after the standing ovations and enthusiastic response from the audience, hopefully we will see more amazing showcase performances from the Australian Calisthenics Theatre Company. This was more than a dance recital; this was a brilliant showcase of a sensational athletic art form.
Reviewed by Ben Stefanoff
Venue: Festival Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre
Season: Ended
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