Explain Normal

How would you explain ‘normal’? This collaborative show tackles the subject through movement, dance, comedy and music. Explain Normal is a collaboration between director, Daniele Constance, the Aha Ensemble and the Phluxus2 Dance Collective – groups that work with artists who identify as having a disability. Explain Normal looks at very personal experiences as the artists define ‘normal’ through their own eyes.

The performance starts with a graffiti wall; squiggles of light trace the shapes of individuals as they are described in voice over. Tall, short, confident, strong – it makes you think about how others would describe yourself. And how would you describe others? As three performers trace the shapes, they are joined by an orange blimp-like figure and they all try to shift their shapes to fit the outlines on the wall.

The pace is refreshingly meditative, and the soundscape unusually relaxing, working with lighting design by Keith Clarke to set the scene for a series of solo performances by artists not usually given a place on centre stage.

Heartbreaking monologues brush shoulders with warm storytelling. The electro beats – a live music and DJ performance by Joseph Burgess – accompany dance and movement from the group, including Nadia Milford, Tara Heard, Kayah Guenther, Mitchell Runice and Charles Ball. The choreograpy by Nerida Matthaei uses the performers’ bodies to play with images of joining together, disconnecting and dismantling.

A character with fairy-light hair adds to the visuals – maybe representing the beauty we all aspire to, a strangely attractive but highly unattainable idea of ‘normal’. The piece also plays with the idea of everyday aspirations – Ruby Donohoe’s piece asks – is it so normal to enjoy a noisy nightclub? Megan Louise West performs a piece about an unusually deep friendship. And Allycia Staples reflects on the ultimate question – is there a ‘normal’ way to anticipate death? In her hilarious comedy piece, Allycia chants a list of ways to die. She cracks herself up – her stage recovery proving her improvisational skills. It is also warm and funny – an appropriate reminder of the heart that is behind this show.

The beautifully meditative voice of Rebecca Dostal draws the performance to a close by revealing the characteristics she loves about a friend – including playing AC/DC music at top volume while driving between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast – all ‘normal’ things we can relate to that become extraordinary at the same time when part of an individual who matters in our life. It’s a valid reminder that, in touching others, everyone can make a unique contribution during their time on this earth. The close companionship of the group is evident as they gather on stage, backing Ruby Donohoe as she turns the spotlight on the audience, in gentle audience participation that fittingly asks us to reflect on our own perceptions, concluding a very moving and refreshing piece of theatre.

Beth Keehn

Photographer: Jorge Serra