The
opening of the piece makes impressive use of soundtrack, which is the basis of
the physicality of the piece, although this is less impactful at the opening
than is the case later in the piece.
There is good contrast between the stillness of Candidate 1 versus the
mechanised physicality of Candidate 2. This was slightly less effective when the
soundtrack moved from a rhythmic pattern to a more melody-based theme following
her scream as the increased volume made it more of a challenge for Candidate 2 to
project over it. The use of the pen
writing (in the back projection) is effective but the combination of the
soundtrack, the imagery and Candidate 2 trying to project was an intense mix so that
the combination of all three borders on being distracting.
At 1’50” Candidate 2 stands up, which brings in a change of episode in which both Candidate 2 and Candidate 1 are very well matched physically.
There is a strong sense of partnership, and both take their lead from
the projection of the art mannequin. The
clarity of diction on the recording may not represent the experience of the
live audience. On the basis that both
candidates take a declamatory approach to the dialogue, it was likely to be
easier to distinguish words in live performance than it is on the recording.
At 2’41”,
the style of the drama changes in a section that juxtaposes non-naturalistic
dialogue, interspersed with a more light-hearted style of music. The
alternating lines delivered around the single block capture the nature of
anxiety and this gives way to a section of overlapping dialogue. The interplay between the two candidates also
makes effective used of their height differences.
At around
6’ into the piece, there is burst of commercial advert-type music and an
episode based on an Escitalopram (antidepressant) support group in which both
candidates adopt different character personas. The use of the glove puppet adds
an element of Absurdism to the piece. Although less physical than the other
sections, the interplay between the two candidates works well. The transitions from chair to chair are inventive.
Candidate 1 screams at just before 9 minutes, which is the start of a calmer section,
accompanied by Minimalist-inspired piano music. At the stage, Candidate 1 really comes
into his own and matches GIRL in his vocal power and physical presence. A new element of Absurdism is introduced at
around 10 minutes, with Candidate 1 making very effective use of puppet, excellent use
of space, and some very appropriate use of facial expression. At around 12
minutes, the projected metronome imagery ushers in a very powerful lighting
change and an engaging image of the two candidates seated in front of the
metronome projection. The sudden wash of
light is slightly awkward, but this quickly reverts to a calmer ending.
This is a creative piece which
uses their chosen stimulus inventively. Both candidates demonstrate excellent
physicality and commitment.
