Invites us into the telling of cyclical life on Earth with transformative eye-catching costumes
Metamorphosis at Camden People’s Theatre, devised and curated by Nina Rosaline Brostrøm, invites us into the telling of cyclical life on Earth with transformative eye-catching costumes. Exhibited here, we watch three small stories of transformation and literal metamorphosis through physical theatre, ambient music and movement.
The costumes, beautifully manifested throughout the performances, provided subtle suggestions of different insects and creatures. The first, a motherly entity full of pride who gives birth to two children, trapped in the umbilical cord/ rope. They begin to play, move and intertwine themselves, jokingly trapping the mother and finally escaping her reign. This gestural telling of mother versus child, displayed the duality of entrapment and freedom.
The second, a particularly impressive story of a temptress spider who sucks her prey into her web. The web had a memorable imagery, with patterns, different materials and colours washing through it. With a fantastic audience reaction, the web easily transported us into this ecological world, it was certainly a star moment of the performance.
Last but not least, the ensemble were dressed head to toe in black, yellow and printed floral material. Although there was slight uncertainty with who the ensemble were trying to become, it became clear soon after white silky material came pouring out of the sides. They came together and formed the shape of a bee, learning to fly.
Although a work-in-progress performance, the complicité of the performers felt murky at times, leaving gaps of static and abrupt motion to seep in but without a doubt, the costumes were applaudable and praiseworthy to high standards and served their purpose well as the chosen vehicle for storytelling and caused subsequent engagement. Additionally, all material was sustainably sourced and curated to not only serve character, but the setting too, in moments, consuming the majority of the stage.
Metamorphosis is an explorative performance through the use of choreographed physical theatre and costumes. Concluding in excitement and wonder, Metamorphosis is absolutely one to keep an eye open for.