RAW

Although aerialism is increasingly popular, it is usually a mere ornamentation for conventional proscenium performance, a magic moment of flight thet goes one higher than balletic leaps. Fidget Feet go further: the Drill Hall is converted into an aerial arena, festonned with ropes and pullies, and the initial clubby atmospher is soon overwhelmed by swinging, dangling dancers.

In terms of technique and expressiveness, RAW excels. It is spectacular, fast, daring and dangerous. The four aerialists have exquisite skill, and the high wires are integral to the characterisation. A sequence on ropes is a perfect symbol of the ups and downs of the chemical rollercoaster. A Matrix-style fight scene injects humour and action. The finale, a peaceful arrival at a place of holiness and wisdom, resolves the desperate energy of the early scenes. It is almost a masterpiece, a showcase for aerisalism as a vibrant, important medium.

The weaknesses are few: the spiritual philosophy that moves the plot is trite and addled, taking "God as a DJ" far too literally, but only causing one weak scene. The kitsch show-tune celebrity parody seems to come from another production. Yet these moments are subsumed beneath the forceful pace and stunning performances.

If aerialism has often been relegated to a sideshow, a circus trick, RAW places it centre-stage and opens its possibilities.