The Element of Consequence

This contemporary circus performance makes an explicit crossover with performance art and dance. The circus acts are infused with stylised movement and gesture and generate an unusual relationship with some very ordinary, everyday objects. These objects are recontextualised and played with in order to accentuate the dynamics of the acrobatic feats. The relationship with each object creates a unique physical interpretation of space, movement and equilibrium.  The elements introduced into the performance piece all have fascinating consequences for form and movement, and the circus and acrobatic skills of the performers are deployed in an exceptional and often extraordinary manner.

Anna Murray’s facial expressions encourage an amusing cynicism and her incredible manoeuvring of a pair of trousers defies gravity. Olivia Watts merges her acrobatics with hair styling and Alyssa Moore’s corde lisse skills allow her to glide through the air. The troupe of artists includes the nimble Josie Wardrope and altogether they breathe new and very graceful life into familiar objects. The performance renders these objects strange and peculiar while retaining perfect harmony with the soundtrack. The finesse of the movement creates dynamic sculptured shapes and patterns that are impeccably timed. The interactions with the objects are unpredictable yet they are made smooth and seamless, and almost natural. The performance highlights an ingenuous exploitation of some very traditional circus artistry and produces a show that is full of surprise and delight.

Patricia Di Risio

Photographer: Aaron Walker