Time Over Distance Over Time

The idea behind this production is bridging the gaps that occur when one chooses, for whatever reason, to move away from home and friends. The program notes explain that six dancers will “wrestle with the physical and emotional distance they encounter while living at opposite ends of the planet”.

By its very nature much contemporary dance is esoteric, relying on the audience’s ability to relate to the movement, the interaction of the dancers and the use of space, and perhaps take from it a more personal interpretation of the performance.

In this production the aim explained in the program is initially exemplified by the expressive use of strained distance juxtaposed with taut proximity in fast-paced circles of movement that connect and disconnect. This is followed by a series of sequences that overlap and inter-weave, some in which performers are alone and isolated, others where performers reach out in groups. Every movement is carefully timed and sequences overlap with skillful and meticulous control.

Well into the performance the dancers erect an image jigsaw-like sculpture printed on perpex-like shapes that are slotted together. The fact that this happens quite slowly and at the far side of the space breaks the pace of the performance – and what impact the sculpture might have upon those in the audience who can see it. It’s deconstruction and placement in pieces around the stage at the end of the performance is equally obscure.

The use of technology in some sequences is interesting and clever. One uses telephones and a repeated letter/conversation. Another involves a camera that projects a group photo from which a figure gradually fades after it has moved away. This sequence perhaps shows most clearly the way people seem to be forgotten when they are far away.

Intricate choreography and the inclusion of other theatre arts lends variety and depth to this performance.

Carol Wimmer

Photographer: Luca Truffarelli