Melbourne Arts Center Theatre.
August 28, 2024.
There was something in the air on opening night of Bangarra Dance Theatre’s latest production; horizonthe company’s first international collaboration featuring Australian and New Zealand stories. From the excited chatter in the theater foyer to the audience’s cheers after a very special “Welcome to Country,” it was clear as the first act kicked off that we were in for something special.
Around the theme of “home”, horizon Includes two bills – heat and light insideThe show introduces three new choreographic voices: Sani Townson (Saibai), Deborah Brown (Waikaid Clan, Meriam) and Moss Te Uruangi Patterson (Ngati Tuwharetoa).
What is home? Is it a place, a feeling, an idea? Is this where we come from? As a young boy, Townsend’s grandfather told him that his family came from the stars and that their traditional songs and dances reflected the constellations. Has four actions (Life, bloodline, crocodile god and Adrenaline), Townsend’s piece takes place under a large mirror, giving the dancers the illusion of stars in the sky. Later in the piece, the mirror acts as a mute waterway, transforming the dancer into a moving crocodile.
Townsend’s choreography first sees the dancers weaving in and out of partners as if moving through the sky, and then develops into the final movement, which allows the dancers to express the joy of singing and dancing. Music by Amy Flannery brings heat brought to life with its intense and pulsating soundtrack.
After the intermission, the second act begins, which lasts 72 minutes, which is a bit heavy compared to the 20 minutes of the first act. light inside There are two different parts: brine (Deborah Brown), and freshwater (Moss Patterson) could have spaced it out further. Nonetheless, the two parts work well together, taking the viewer on a journey of people, place, and togetherness.
Brown’s choreography is very fluid for the subject matter, and the movement “blue Star’ showcases the incredible Lillian Banks, who shines brighter than the twinkling star she portrays alone.
Patterson brings his Māori roots to the stage, which sees the dancers embody the style with ease and authenticity. One prominent part is ‘sacred hair’ The dancer’s long hair is intertwined, calling for female power.
unified The strength and power of the company were showcased through dance and music, and employee stories were shared. It’s a visual feast that explores the importance of home – a concept unique to each of us.
Author: Rebecca Martin Dance information.
