Bunny

“Bunny” is the name given to a person tied in rope bondage. This bold collaboration by Singapore dancer Daniel Kok and Tasmanian-born Luke George captivates and pushes the boundaries of trust. Erotica bubbles under the surface of this theatre piece, with the audience as much a part of the presentation as the artists themselves.

For two hours we witness the skill of various rope bondage techniques in this contemporary display that questions the relationships between artists and audience. As we enter the large performing space, we are confronted with inanimate objects bound in rope. A vacuum cleaner, fan, scatter cushions, fire extinguisher, cd player and table have been woven in brightly coloured rope, perhaps highlighting materialism and our obsession with ownership.

Both Kok and George execute their skills with confidence, hinting at the power they clearly have over the room and its occupants. Barely a sound can be heard apart from the odd uncomfortable laugh as we all try to make sense of the display before us. George then beckons for some music. We are met with the familiar eight notes to the beginning of Chicago’s hit, ‘If you leave me now’. A collective howl can be heard around the room. A cheesy pop tune is clearly what none of us were expecting.

Audience members were chosen at random; some were tied up where they sat, others were led around the room blindfolded. The trust and consent given was extraordinary and surprising, given the subject matter. At times I sat in awe at the artistry, but for the most part I felt vulnerable. Kok bent over a table, as George urged an audience member to whip him. It was at this point that some audience members left.

I needed for the performance to be more; I was looking for some deeper meaning to an ambiguous plot. A wonderful choreographed dance number was thrown into the mix. I was entertained, but never aroused; however I am unsure if that was the intention. Art comes in all forms and speaks louder to some than others. If diversity is what you are looking for then this show may satisfy.

Kerry Cooper

Photographer: Bernie Ng.