Breaking the silence

11 Sep 2014

Having just seen the production of Struck Silent, I feel myself somewhat struck by silence. My silence is, in part, because of my absolute lack of qualification to judge dance and also because of my incomprehension about the piece - and obviously there may well be a relationship between the two factors. Nevertheless, helped along by the programme notes, I will attempt to break the silence.

Struck Silent is the second production of a collaboration between Scenkonst Sormland and the Baxter Theatre. The collaboration, called Growth, seeks to examine questions relating to economic growth by using voices that are not often heard, to inform the piece. The first production, I Hit the Ground Running was informed by the voices of unemployed youths. Struck Silent is informed and inspired by the voices and questions of the old.

A compelling, taut and beautiful piece

Three dancers and three musicians hold the action for an hour. Gunilla Hammar, Shaun Oelf and Tabisa Dinga dance together in lithe and beautiful movement, choreographed by Ananda Fuchs. The very interesting score by Tebogo Monnakgotla is perfectly synchronised by Aska Karlberg on flute, Elemer Lavotha on cello and Jonny Axelsson on percussion - including glass bowls. These various elements all work together seamlessly and provide a compelling, taut and beautiful piece.

Costumes are simple, as is the set. Lighting by Bennie Arendse and videography by Oscar O'Ryan play their part in creating the tension and interest of Struck Silent.

I have no doubt that those who know about dance will find Struck Silent a very rich experience. But even for plebs like me who don't have a clue about what's cooking, it was a lovely experience to witness the beauty of this well-formed collaboration.

Struck Silent runs at the Baxter Flipside until 13 September at 6.30pm nightly, with a matinee on Saturday, 13 September at 2pm. There is a schools performance at 11am on Thursday, 11 September. Tickets cost R100 and booking is through Computicket on 0861 915 8000, online at www.computicketcom or at any Shoprite Checkers outlet. For discounted school or group block bookings, fundraisers or charities contact Sharon Ward on +27 (0)21 680 3962 or email az.ca.tcu@draw.norahs or Carmen Kearns on +27 (0)21 680 3993 or email her at az.ca.tcu@snraek.nemrac.