Energetic and exciting, offering a unique experience of storytelling
Dance is such an interesting medium: without any words, it is possible to create an atmosphere and an image that sticks with an audience, and that’s exactly what Dance Is Not For Us did.
The company proved exactly why dance is so incredibly important to us. Initially, I was skeptical of the idea that dance could tell meaningful stories. The dance by Omar Rajeh & Maqamat rejects this idea and rearranges it, creating a type of dance specifically meant for people who have never/rarely felt attached to dance before. Where dance originally seems cautious and poised, this company proves that dance is for anyone who has a passion. Especially for those that feel dance is not for them. In a fantastic, innovative display of movement and dance, they display why dance should not only be for everyone, but should be essential for everyone, to understand each other’s different walks of life. It offers style, position and technique of thought that allow us to engage with difficult themes, negative emotion, and determination.
The beauty of dance is that it is understandable, no matter the language. Whether this is the first dance you’re attending or the fiftieth, it is universally compatible with any sort of understanding of language. How to transcribe this fantastic movement into words that can convey the message portrayed here? The only answer is this: come and watch the performance by Rajeh. Immerse yourself in the process of creation, of finding yourself among others. That is what this performance offers.
Another performance I had the pleasure of attending was Bottoms. Full of life, energy, and intricate moments, the performance was also an hour long, and a wonderful look into how creative dancers and choreographers can be. Sections of bright lively dance were cut through with times of motionlessness and of breathing, along with painting.
Once again, the performance was universally understood: without words, they made us laugh and lean forward in our seats, all with the same melody of music playing throughout the piece. Both performances were impressive, capturing the essence of humanity in their heartfelt pieces.
One downside of Bottoms was the auction of art created through the work at the end. Lasting between ten and fifteen minutes, it felt strange and a little uncomfortable to sit through people bidding on art after a lively performance. Some of the energy and enjoyment fell away, despite the performers’ own effort.
Overall, both performances were fantastic, offering new perspectives and an alternative way of viewing movement. Although the auction at the end of Bottoms detracted from the show, I would not miss the chance to see these two performances, along with many others, at Dance International Glasgow this month!