An interesting look at an eternal paradox
Presented by: Motus Collective
Reviewed: 3 October 2024
The inspiration for this production is a paradox, The Ship of Theseus, based on an ancient Greek legend. Fundamentally a thought experiment based on the question whether a ship that has had every plank replaced over the years is still the same ship, and likewise if our cells replicate every seven years, do we remain the same person? How do we define self as it changes throughout our life cycle?
The performance was played on an open stage, with the audience on two sides.The scenery consisted of a white mat over the performance area with several statues, seemingly unfinished, or incomplete. Four dancers, costumed all in white with whitened hair, were reminiscent of Greek statues. The accompanying soundscape was at times rhythmic and occasionally jarring, suiting the action of the time.
Representing the never ending loop of time the dancers use their physicality to evoke the many feelings and situations that the cycle with its moments of chaos brings. In the course of the performance they show us love, loss, fear, anger and forgiveness. The concept allows us to think about personal identity and how it may change within the cycle.
Sculptor Nicholas Hanisch says the figures were created while contemplating the exoskeletons left by our previous selves. Composer Alex Kuijpers created a landscape that he feels is deep and disorienting but comfortable, with some success. Lighting by Kobe Donaldson enhanced the feel and added to the atmosphere. The costumes by Vicki Gay suited the style of the production.
The choreography by Zoe Gay was well presented and beautifully imagined by Felicity Boyd, Tayla Hoadley, Sophie Hollingworth and Isobel Stolinski, an all encompassing work. The opening night was well attended by a keen audience.
Reviewed by Fran Edwards
Photo credit: supplied
Venue: Space Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre
Season: 3-5 October 2024
Duration: 50 mins
Tickets: $35.00
Bookings: https://www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/whats-on/the-leftovers
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