12.98°C Interpretive dance, the butt of many a modern comedian’s jokes over recent years and an art form that I can’t say I’m overly familiar with or knowledgeable about. However, this solo performance at Colchester Fringe by Kanna Mishima in the Mercury Theatre’s Studio was nothing short of stunning. Her dancing ability, movement and storytelling had the small but appreciative audience spellbound.
The show is described as a powerful story by a Japanese dancer about an unsent letter, an unheard voice and, through fading dreams, how the letter will finally reach you. It is, quite simply, beautiful. The balletic moves are perfect and performed with grace and style. I couldn’t take my eyes off Kanna as she moved around the studio space with such ease and fluidity.
The set, consisting of a Christmas tree with presents around it situated at the back of the stage, is simple but effective, allowing the audience’s focus to rest entirely on the dancer. There is emotion and meaning in every move. The choreography is first class. The music has been selected to enhance the stories being told and serves as a beautiful accompaniment to the movement and dance. The poignancy of putting on and taking off garments and shoes in total silence was a standout and memorable moment. Dark humour is used to capture the dancer’s lack of stature (“you are short” being spelt out in English), resulting in a stretching out of arms and legs in a futile attempt to gain height and length.
The moment when she steps into her amazing tutu and pointe shoes is truly breathtaking and produces a grand finale of wonderful joy and reflection. It was a privilege to watch Dear You. The grace, beauty and flow of the movement are as impressive as the strength, stamina and energy required to perform it.
Thank you, Dear You. Exquisite.
Review by Tim Young.
Next performance is at 5.30pm on Saturday, 1st November. Tickets are available.
