“A heartwarming double bill, bursting with intention”
Obscura, a double dance bill by Company Chameleon, is a masterclass in storytelling. Made up of two separate pieces – ‘Umbra’ and ‘Refuse’ – they both feature choreography that is rich with life, original and perceptive in its conveyance of humanity, intimacy and conflict. Made even fiercer by the incredible performance by the cast, it’s difficult to pick my jaw up off the floor where it lays.
Firstly, Obscura by Company Chameleon is marketed as a double bill, however, I must also acknowledge the incredible opening show from Chameleon Youth. The talent of those young people is mighty, and I think it’s a fantastic move to have them open for the company. It’s a great way to foster community, and this was definitely felt amongst the audience. I’d love to see more theatre companies do this too. The choreography was electric and soaring with energy and dedication, a thrill to watch.
Thematically, Umbra explores exclusion and understanding in its many forms. A piece that is tender and understated yet simultaneously searing and alert. There were several gasps when one performer jumped completely over the head of another one, capturing this pyretic energy, yet also a shared sense of awe for gentler moments and stillness. The piece definitely told a story, but also left it open enough that the audience member could identify their own personal meaning with it, which is a beautiful balance, and one difficult to strike. Made even more gratifying when paired with the second piece, which feels more narrative-based, it was fantastic to see two different formats in which Chameleon can tell stories.
The second piece, ‘Refuse’ explores migration, asylum, refuge, displacement and humanity. Inspired by Théodore Géricault’s painting ‘The Raft Of The Medusa’, this performance shares the same emotional weight. I don’t want to give too much away, but what you must know is that it is a thoughtful, empathetic piece that offers up so much conversation for no words spoken, a case study for the power of dance.The moment at the end where the lighting lifts on the audience and the performers stand furthest downstage possible, looking into the eyes of the audiences is chilling and resonant – seeming to ask them ‘What side of history do you stand on?’ Obscura opened at HOME on 6th February and played for one night, it is now touring to The Arts Centre, Edge Hill University on Wednesday 11 February and Pegasus Theatre, Oxford on Friday 6 March, before concluding.