By a Thread

By a Thread is the name of the piece and also describes most of the action - the performers spend much of the night hanging by a thread, albeit a chunky one. They climb, swing balance, slide, catch, pull, twist and caress a single piece of rope to the delight (and gasps) of the audience.

These superbly fit young graduates of the National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA), all rippling muscles and six packs, have created a well paced and joyous physical performance. Feats of balance, strength, timing and daring mix with stillness in what appears to be a simple show, but is a highly choreographed dance, full of precision and hard work. 

Sound design by Lee Stout almost seamlessly integrated with the action, and drew on a range of styles. The music and lighting design (nice work by AfterDark Theatre) worked hand in hand to help create an acrobatic performance with light and shade, drama and comedy.

This is a young company with a bright future if they continue to build and develop their already impressive skills and talent.

Shirley Jensen.

Photographer: Aaron Walker.

Credits

Created by Ela Bartilomo, Sarah Berrell, Emily Chilvers, Ryan Darwin, Piri Goodman, Amanda Lee, Jonathan Morgan, Hamish Norris, Jordan O’Brien, Charice Rust, Luke Thomas. 

Directed by Jonathan Morgan and Charice Rust.