Review: Continuum

Three masters come together for Sydney Dance Company’s stunning new triple bill, Continuum.

Continuum is the perfect title for this trio of works. Rafael Bonachela’s Spell, Tra Mi Dinh’s Somewhere between ten and fourteen, and Stephen Page’s Unungkati Yantatja – one with the other, are each completely distinct pieces, yet there is a flow and feeling of connection between them. 

First, Spell, which opens auspiciously with a solo dancer and no music. The sole figure moves on the sparse stage, alone and silent before another dancer appears and we hear the first strains of music. More dancers appear and the music flourishes. 

Bonachela’s choreography is elegant and inventive. The dancers move like liquid, acutely in sync with each other, in expressions of phrases that are not definitive but allow the viewer to extrapolate a story. Spell’s costumes, designed by Kelsey Lee, are varied cuts in varied shades of burgundy and maroon. They give unison and individuality all at once. The set is minimal with Damien Cooper’s lighting helping to give shape and ambience. 

Next, Dinh’s Somewhere between ten and fourteen bursts forth energetically. Aleisa Jelbart has designed costumes that are somewhat diaphanous but have an urban feel. They are in varied shades of blue, giving the overall effect of a watercolour. The dance has discernible narrative beats, moving through dynamic changes in music and movement. It’s exciting and captivating. 

The third work is performed after the intermission and takes up the whole second half. Stephen Page’s Unungkati Yantatja – one with the other, is a deeply affecting work, drawing on spirit, land and Indigenous culture. Page collaborated with William Barton, a preeminent player of the Yidaki (didgeridoo of the Yolngu people of North East Arnhem Land), who plays live and sings on stage, accompanied by the strings of the Omega Ensemble. 

Barton’s voice is robust and soulful, and the sounds he creates with the Yidaki are remarkable in quality and range. A very large, roughly hewn boomerang hangs overhead. The dancers are dressed in costumes designed by Jennifer Irwin which are as beautiful as they are meaningful; flowing pieces made up of strands of fabric resembling lizard skin.  The entire work is utterly engaging, stirring visceral emotions and intelligent contemplation. 

Continuum is on now until November 2

📍 Roslyn Packer Theatre, Hickson Road, Walsh Bay

🎟️ www.sydneydancecompany.com/performance/continuum