Mortal Engine

The concept of a “light & sound show” is given a whole new dimension. Techies, the quiet types in the shadows, hold this show firmly in their grasp, along with five computers, an oscilloscope and an infra-red camera.

Chunky Move brings to us from Australia a production unlike any other in its use of technology. Gideon Obanzanek's artistic vision breaks down the traditional dichotomy of man versus the machine, art versus science, rendering it entirely obsolete. Choreographed with touching sensuality and danced with near perfection—considering the sloping stage, near pitch darkness, unpredictable music and lighting—the production is a tribute to the human body, the longing for love, as well as electronics.

Light and sound are products of the dancers' movements: but some sequences are more successful than others in conveying this. The company is clearly in its experimental phase, in that not only is it rewardingly inventive with technology, but also experimental with its dance narratives, some of which work better than others. The audience is slightly miffed by harsh flashing lazers that capture layers of artificial smoke—turning the Playhouse into a hip techno club for a few comical moments—as well as shrill and deafening beeping noises.

The show, with its unique sound and lighting, hammers out a homage to technology. For those who understand the language of computers, and so the work that went into this production, it must be a beautiful hymn indeed. And for those who don't— the majority of us—it's beautiful nonetheless.