Haunting and disquieting is this section from the video called “Strange Fish” by DV8 Physical Theatre. It was originally conceived, choreographed and directed by Lloyd Newson and later adapted to film by Newson and David Hinton. Hinton directed this film.
The name of the piece was adapted from an old Buddhist saying: “Be as ignorant of what you are going to catch as a fisherman is of what is at the end of his fishing line”. This refers to the theme of the work that looks at attraction in relationships between people and their incessant need and search for a person to love together with their underlying need for someone or something to believe in.
Newson also explores the tyranny of couples and groups, and the pain that is experienced when people are ostracized from these social arrangements which is tied to a deep fear humans have of being left alone. Newson exposes all these social conditions in powerful images throughout the video by applying humor, religious iconography and the physicality of dance theatre to push limits and take risks beyond the boundaries of traditional dance presentation.
The scene in this video takes place in the narrow confines of an old hallway made claustrophobic by the stuffy orange hues and lighting. We see a wonderful use of space in the duet in which the couple meld in, around and off one another including the wall. I particularly like the moment they step out of the light to become an anonymous silhouette. I think the dance is an excellent example of the application of contact improvisation technique, and how it produces such strong organic movement possibilities in choreography, especially in partner and group work. It is an excellent choice in this particular scene.
The scene evokes a powerful sense of alienation where we see the response of the woman observing the couple who completely ignore her presence. One can sense her aloneness made all the more acute by the distance between her and the couple. It is a poignant and sad moment when we see her watching on the outside; ignored.
This is a powerful and moving scene with a beautifully dance duet.
Please enjoy it with your friends!
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