#ifeel2

The repetitive effect was incredibly compelling as although the movement was identical, (to the extent where they crossed their leg behind and then in front each time) there was differences to spot in the cycle. The performers began to feel the music and started transforming this simple movement into far more complex. By this, I don’t mean they broke out into an demanding dance routine, rather the complexity derived from the layers that could be unfolded through small movements such as the digging of the hip or the the shake of the shoulder.  Although one may consider a repeated sequence of movement over the course of an hour to become dull, it is these small differences that made it all the more captivating. By having only subtle, unintended cracks of characters shining through, it makes it challenging for the audience- something which I consider important in theatre. However, it is not a challenge that is problematic or necessarily needs to be solves but simply allows the piece to be “inexhaustible, incomplete and mysterious”. By having these qualities it kept me intrigued for with each repetition, with each sequence, was born a new layer to add to the construction of the performance.

However, it is interesting to consider the effect this had on the audience. I watched a videoed account of the performance so the atmosphere which I felt was probably dramatically different to those there. Yet although I was in a space I felt comfortable in and I was watching the performance second-hand it still managed to compel me. It gained a power over me that made me calm yet focused, content yet confused; almost, I would say, like an optical illusion. Although I wanted to keep watching at the same time I felt like I almost couldn’t stop. The deep focus that the repetitive movement drew me into captivated- it was enough for me to keep watching. However, if someone wasn’t enthralled by the movement the set was designed cleverly to keep the audience interested; to keep them guessing. For instance, there was a random suitcase placed on the corner of the stage which seemed somewhat out of place and therefore might make the audience look more deeply into the movement to try and find some explanation. 

There is much more that could be commented on in this piece; the design of set and the interesting relationship between the two performers are key elements to the piece. However, what stood out for me was the effect that the piece had on the audience, or at least on myself. It was the simple intricateness of the piece that urged me to keep watching it, but it was the beautiful calmness I felt that made me want me to watch it again.