Updated with new reader review, 23 Sep, 19.00
THE ABSOLUT FRINGE 2011 has over 100 shows playing out across Dublin until 25 September. Each day, TheJournal.ie will bring you our readers’ reviews of the pick of the crop and everything in between. You’ll get the chance to get in on the act yourself with our daily reader review tickets giveaway!
Today’s review:
(Irish Modern Dance Theatre; Project Arts Centre)
Alita Rivero’s review: With very little background on what we were about to see, we sat anxiously waiting, and we didn’t have to wait long for the first smile on our faces. Right from the beginning, the standard speech we are so used to hear about turning all cell phones off and locating the emergency exits was performed to the audience, mimicking the voice-over coming from the speakers.
And so we start swinging, five main performers on scene, slowly start appearing on stage, each of them feeling the music at their pace, interacting, connecting, and yet seeming all disconnected at the same time. At the back of the stage, wooden booth going up and down propelled by the very own actors, revealing an unexpected reaction from the performer going in and out.
It is hard to create a timeline of scenes as much as recall emotions, sensations, feeling of expectation of “what will happen next”. Music comes on and off, performers bounce around the stage; all of the sudden, interventions coming from the audience itself. Everyone mesmerized, trying to figure out what character to follow, trying to take it all in at once.
A total randomness of images and emotions expressed by movements and sounds. Expect the unexpected, be prepared to be amused, and laugh not quite knowing why.
In three words? Eclectic, unconventional, bizarre.
Orlaith Kingston’s review: A dance piece to be enjoyed in the moment, ‘maKe I mean’ leaves the viewer curious and enthralled by how the performers engage with each other and the audience.
This cast of dancers of different ages, nationalities, personalities, and disciplines come together to make a funny and original dance, sound, and visual creation.
With a combination of explosive dance sequences, random voice interruptions, singing torsos, and absurd costumes, ‘maKe I mean’ offers the audience an eclectic mix of wildness open to many interpretations. An enjoyable and unique performance that leaves you laughing in your seat!
In three words? Entertaining. Risk-taking. Funny.
