Anima

Published Friday 8 February 2008 at 16:25 by Chris High

Visually stunning, artistically inspired and - at times - deeply disturbing, Momentum’s third step in their trilogy exploring life and consciousness, Anima, meaning “to breathe”, is a gold-plated treat for all who love physical theatre of the very highest standard.

Performing before a backstage littered with cardboard boxes, a garden swing and two chairs, Karamalogos carries the Mermaid-attired Randle on stage through a fug of dry ice and so begins a journey of discovery, emphasising the dynamics between the conscious and subconscious with fabulous, intricate choreography and an almost tangible desire and passion, through vivid characterisations and surreal interpretation.

Vergil Sharkya’s score punctuates each and every nuance and pose in the piece with either electric pulsating rhythm or calming strings to devastating effect, accentuated by the striking lighting, which adds further adventure to a piece already crammed full with inventiveness.

But it is the sheer energy both performers put into their routines that is astonishing. Their perfect timing, particularly in the opening section of the piece, lives long in the memory, as each character’s movement is mirrored faultlessly by the other at breakneck speed. Indeed, the whole show is one of great frenzy, counter-balanced by displays of controlled aggression, culminating finally into an outpouring of emotion and angst until equilibrium and serenity are found, as roles reverse then unify.

Mesmerising and enlightening, Momentum’s burgeoning reputation for producing all that is good in the world of dance is nothing if not exemplified still further with Anima. The spontaneous enthusiasm and appreciation demonstrated by the sell-out audience at its conclusion surely bodes well for their future.