Friday 29 October 2010

Document 8 and Maryhill Integration Network

Document 8, a forward-thinking film and performance festival took place this week at the CCA in Glasgow. My interest lay in the story of Iranian dancers, who were exiled for their passion, dance treated as a crime.

This real-life Footloose story affected me deeply, even imagining dance and the arts being illegal leaves me feeling empty and restricted. After seeing the documentary film, I really appreciated how dance can be free and uplifting, bringing people together in a community, much more than a technique or performance art.

The performance by Maryhill Integration Network was colourful, energetic and to the point. I struggled to forgive the poor attempts at Highland dancing until the younger members of the cast began their freestyle section, showing individual character, expression and freedom. The cast communicated the highs and lows of living in their home nations and their journeys since living in Glasgow. It is hard to fault this group, as technical performers they may be lacking in experience but they are so much more than performers. These are real people, telling a story through movement which we can all relate to. The integration network brings these people together and gives them a common goal where their creativity can blossom.

Language barriers are never an issue when conversing through movement. This performance shed light on the differing cultures living in the city of Glasgow, beautiful interactions, free choreography and engaging personalities. A thoroughly enjoyable evening.

Monday 25 October 2010

Cirque de Glace-Theatre Royal Glasgow

The Russian Ice Stars are a favourite of mine, with their skill on the ice and wealth of talent in dance and circus, their shows always make for a great night of entertainment.

Cirque de Glace Evolution followed the story of the beginning of time, from the earth being formed right up to a present day metropolis. Parts of the story didn't fit but it honestly didn't matter, the spetacle of the production was enough on its own.

The silks work was particularly well presented, the three female aerialists showing beautiful poise and technical accuracy. It was a shame that the contortionist lost her balance near the start but she made up for it nearer the end by repeating the position that had knocked her off initially. Indeed, it was still very impressive as she performed on top of a globe!

I will definitley be buying a ticket for the next tour and I'm looking forward to what other performance arts the cast can turn their hand to!

Monday 4 October 2010

My dad dances like...

a 70s punk rocker, "boonin aboot" to the music and playing guitar on his leg. He once performed such an enthusiastic rockstar jump that he smashed the ceiling light in my Auntie's house!