I could have spent my time during Thursday’s last performance of Clammy Glamour From The Curio-Cabinet wondering why the skeleton was dangling precariously from the pole, but then I would have missed the antics of the rabbit bouncing along.
I could have tried to understand why the diabolical twins were fighting, but then I wouldn’t have taken in the skill of their trapeze duo.
I could have tried to figure out why the sinister Toy Doctor was applying chalk to the inside-thigh of a young, lycra-clad woman doing the splits, while she was suspended by a strap, all the while being watched by a skeleton, but, really, who cares? Just show me again!
Clammy Glamour doesn’t promise a clear linear narrative. It did offer a continuous spectacle, from start to finish. Actually, it isn’t continuous – sometimes it splits into two or three spectacles all happening at once. They should have warned the audience: Warm up your neck before the show starts. It’ll be twisting back-and-forth trying to take it all in.
While other members of the audience raved about the beauty of the triple-lyra, the imagery of the red silks, or the surprise of watching the tissu being deliberately cut, even as the artists were hanging by it, for me there were two particular highlights.
Kristi Wade’s acro technique was impeccable, with some of the crispest tumbling and contortion I have ever seen; her strength, flexibility and tight control over her body was a wonder to watch.
Meanwhile, Tanya Richards demonstrated a character through her physicality that was almost opposite. Her imp costume offered an ambiguous array of interpretations, but to me, her movements were reminiscent of a gecko, clambering up impossible surfaces, alternating between perfect stillness and rapid wriggling. I really enjoyed it.
With nine members of the cast, all demonstrating high levels of talent and character, Clammy Glamour didn’t stop moving at a rapid pace – far to fast to allow any time for interpretation. I may not be able to explain what it was about, but I couldn’t avert my eyes from the action for a second.
Clammy Glamour’s Sydney Fringe season was too short – only four shows (and the last night was packed, even at 10pm on a school night) – but the Aerialize Company have proven that they can deliver on what they promised. Look out for their next show.