Betroffenheit

The German word Betroffenheit carries with it a sometimes inexplicable feeling; bereavement, shock and impact caused by tragedy. It’s a sensation attached to an incomprehensible emotion that encompasses the whole body. In their latest performance piece, Electric Company Theatre and Kidd Pivot channel performer Jonathon Young’s personal struggle.

A dimly lit monochromatic set comprised of stark white walls is where we are introduced to our protagonist; the mind of a man trying to cope with loss and various stages of bereavement, a man reliving tragedy, trying to make sense of events, trying to imagine a different outcome.

There’s repetition of sound and movement, at times serene and at other times manic. Words are used as a catalyst for movement and it carries with it depth. We are witnessing a pain that is crippling, heart-breaking and sincere.

Lighting mimics the words spoken, at times bright, showing us an altered state, and frenzied at the moments where Young is struggling with reality. Lighting designer Tom Visser has done a marvellous job to capture and illuminate emotion.

Crystal Pite is a former company member of Ballet British Columbia and choreographer for this piece. Her wonderful use of singular beats highlights a pain felt in every part of the body. Stoic in its delivery, it left me in awe at the energy and strength needed to relay this story. Young has used his art as a carrier for his grief; it is brave, poignant and universal in its message.

In Act Two, performers Bryan Arias, David Raymond, Cindy Salgado, Jermaine Spivey, Tiffany Tregarthen and Jonathon Young relive the moment tragedy struck. It is humbling to watch and surprisingly beautiful. We watch Young face his drug demons.

A sideshow adds colour and a light touch to the heavy subject matter. It is cleverly done with expressive mime work and tapping. Young sings a song so delicate that one empathises with his ordeal.

As he tries to escape to the other side and leave the self-imposed exile of his white room, we witness it disappear into a sheet painted identically. It is clever and symbolic of the collapse of his life and return to reality.

The story is tragic and the way in which grief is channelled is exquisite, performed with grace and bravery.

You would have to have a heart of stone for this show not to leave an impact.

Kerry Cooper

Photographer: Shane Reid