Lit by Fire

Although not without its difficulties, this is a haunting piece of performance for a number of reasons.  Firstly the space that is the Norla Dome is extraordinary and full of wonder, particularly for first time visitors.  In this rarified ambiance we get to experience the moody entrance of a troupe of medieval players, riddled with and character, singing about a Paper Soldier in a world lit by fire, adapted from a Russian folk song by musical director Tim Wild.

Directed to work in an unassuming streamlined style by Scott Gooding, the ensemble tells a tale set in the time of the plague.  Ironically these players are subjugated by the illness of one of their own, a part played in a relaxed and appropriately charismatic manner by Malcolm Berry who is the artist director of the whole event. 

Writer Robert Reid retells a very old traditional tale that is often retold and mined for meaning.  His poetic language, sense of darkness and strong imagery is very affecting and produces its own unique evocative residue

Music fares well and sits comfortably in this space, but not so voice and the spoken word.  If projected with too much effort, words bounce off the hard surfaces and can be difficult to hear.  The space demands clear enunciation without much projection.  Acoustically it could also have a variety of peculiarities depending on where a performer is positioned.  So there are some moments of hit and miss in hearing what is being said. 

Perhaps factoring in a little more rehearsal time in this entrancing space could be the answer for next years offering.

There is an interval afterLit by Fire and then a wonderful musical recital of a Raga called Kirwani, played on Sitar by David Baliban, on Harmonia by Kavita Kalyan and Tabla by Aman Kalyan.

Agniis a rich cultural offering and so worth attending for the marvelous opportunity to experience the Melbourne Mission to Seafarers.  This 100 year old collection of buildings including a chapel is atmospheric, quirky and such a treat to visit.

Suzanne Sandow

Images: Anna Kennedy and Jack Sheppard. Photographer: Jacinta Oaten.

Credits:

Performed by:

Malcolm Berry

Krystal Brock

Jack Sheppard

Anna Kennedy

Original Music and Acoustic Guitar – Tim Wild

Drums – Ashley Galea

Trumpet - Christy