One of the most glorious dance pieces I’ve ever had the pleasure to watch.

Presented at Dance Base Festival, this collaboration between Resident Island Dance Theatre and Maylis Arrabit, is a true representation of how to communicate through dance.

Featuring two wheelchair based dancers and two able-bodied dancers, the piece weaves bodies and machines together in endless harmony, with both intricate and simple choices. 

The journey starts in two isolated environments during the Covid-19 pandemic, artists Maylis Arrabit (French) and Yu-Cheng Cheng (Taiwanese) narrate their day in their native language, a vast backdrop shows the translations. They are then joined by Shih-Yun Fang and Yi-Chen Juan, representative of a connection between parallel realities, the piece explores support and existence.

What stands out throughout the piece is that the wheelchairs/disabilities are not highlighted as a hindrence/negative instead being integrated and used to strengthen both the piece and narrative.

The choreography is sublime with the technique and execution perfection. Each moment is clear, definite and filled with emotion – so much so that throughout I found myself in tears.

A quick moment to appreciate the lighting design from Hsin-Ying Tsai as the plotting is so organic it compliments and enhances each moment.

This show is special and even those who don’t usually care for dance would be swept up on this discovery with Yu-Cheng’s cheeky smile leading the way. Because even in the moments when the narrative is less obvious the feelings and emotions are clear.

Go see this.

Ice Age can be seen at Dance Base until 21st August, 16:15.