Raw

Engaging with a work of art like Raw cannot be done without the highest admiration for the depth of intimacy that Queensland Balletcreates in this trilogy of dance works. The works evoke the stories and emotions of the human experience – with each piece captivating the smallest of details and bringing them to life with an array of some of the world’s finest ballet performers. With the influence of world-renowned Li Cunxin, and in association with leading choreographers Christopher Bruce, Greg Horsman and Liam Scarlett, there is nothing this production can’t do.

The first piece, No Man’s Land, explores what is behind the closed doors of the women working in munition factories while their men are fighting in WWI. With costume and set design by Jon Basour (2012 Paralympics Game opening ceremony designer), every small detail has gone into creating an atmosphere of despair and empathy – as the audience is taken on the emotional journey portrayed through the piece. Choreographer Liam Scarlett tells the story of ultimate heartache and brings to life this surreal experience where you find yourself longing for a happy resolution. It’s as emotionally exhausting as it is beautifully crafted by the incredible athleticism of the dancers and their flawless technique.

Moving to the second piece, Glass Concerto, brings a different feel to the room. Every twist and turn is highlighted with perfect precision and co-ordination by lighting designer Cameron Goerg. This piece really focuses on the intensity and speed of the dancers with simple costumes and staging to emphasise the difficulty and brilliance of their craft. Set against music by Philip Glass, there wasn’t a moment to look away during this part of the trilogy – it was a revival requested by Li Cunxin and received with great acclaim by the audience.

The finale to the performance, Ghost Dances, was a highlight for me in many ways. The set design, lighting and music all complimented each other equally to enhance the contemporary feel the production is known for. The final piece explores love and compassion but as death – with Ghosts interrupting the lives of ordinary people. The three male ghosts that begin this performance stare with an empty gaze into the audience in unison on many occasions, as it brings the experience back down to what it is all about – the emptiness and loneliness of death. Not only this, the artists bring to life a series of different forms of ballet while maintaining the perfect technique of classical ballet.

Raw was easily one of my favourite performance experiences to date. It brought together the ideas and beauty of music, complemented perfectly by the gifted choreography and finally, brought to life by the beautifully intelligent masters of their craft in the world of Ballet.

Mel Bobbermien

Photographer: David Kelly