Pina Bausch Mascura Fogo
February 10, 2017 In Review0 Comments 0
Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch, Masurca Fogo 9–12 Feb Sadler’s Wells.”The entire performance has a very upbeat and infectiously joyful vibe that is a welcome change from some of the more serious and sombre works that Bausch has produced…..” review by Sara Daniels
Masurca Fogo was originally the result of a 3-week trip to Portugal for Pina Bausch and her company, Tanztheatre Wuppertal, in 1997. The entire performance has a very upbeat and infectiously joyful vibe that is a welcome change from some of the more serious and sombre works that Bausch has produced.
The set designed by Peter Pabst is a striking sight. A white box that has a mound of contrasting black rocks, cascading from the back of the stage. This is used by the dancers as they exit and enter the stage, and is in keeping with Bausch’s use of elements in her work.
The audience are taken into the sights and sounds of Portugal. The strong rhythm and beats are heard in the varied and energetic sound track. This is echoed through the trance like choreography seen most in the solo work that transition each phase of the piece.
True to Bausch’s style, each dancer had their own personality that is displayed to the audience. We watched intimate relationships played out from the very small moments like sharing a drink, supplying food, sharing a kiss. To more complex moments that fed the idea of wanting, and needing to be loved.
The humour in the piece aided the joyful atmosphere. Props brought on stage tickled the audience, a live chicken eating a watermelon and a walrus shuffling on stage whilst a group of dancers created a waterslide are two of the most memorable!
Masurca Fogo has a lively and playful tone and it is a joy to spend the evening feeling enriched and uplifted. The show is running until Sunday 12th February and is the perfect escape from the gloomy world outside!
Review by Sara Daniels
