Guttered

As a died-in-the-wool Eels fan, I could not resist the opportunity to revisit the Parramatta Leagues Club to take in the intriguing juxtaposition of giant pictures of Sterlo and Cronin, the dazzling lights of the poker machines and a company which blends dancers with and without disability.

The Restless Dance Company of Adelaide has taken temporary residence of the bowling arcade on the third floor.

A very warm welcome envelopes the audience as they enter the venue – with a personal greeting from a cast member, who prompted us to fill out a card with questions about what makes us feel good. Once seated jokes were hand delivered, stuffed into the holes of the bowling balls.

Pulsation music and lighting, reminiscent of disco in part, wooed us into the mood. It was relaxing and playful to soak in.

The dancing took place across the bowling lanes in modern styles ranging from joyful wooing couples to slides down the lanes.

The theme for the production was the way people with disabilities are often over-protected. In a bowling alley a rail can be placed around the lane so that the ball cannot go into the gutters.

The message from the piece is that people with disabilities miss out on opportunities to make mistakes and learn from them. Remove the rails and let them shine whether it be on the bowling alley or dance floor.

Highlights included a dance where two men compete for the affection of one woman showing that people with disabilities deserve choice.

Another whimsical moment was when a cheeky male dancer played with projections of himself on his singlet.

At the end of the performance every had the chance to have a bowl.

On the way out I put $10 into a poker machine and immediately cashed out when I reach $13.58 – ten minutes later - giving my daughter a practical lesson in responsible gaming.

It was a new and unique experience all around.

David Spicer

Photographer: Roy Vandervegt