There’s a great deal to admire in Apricity, the blend of contemporary circus and dance from Australian outfit Casus Creations. The title of the show is a rarely used word that means the warmth of the sun in winter. It’s an evocative name for an evocative show, which often delivers very beautiful passages of physical performance, even if it could benefit from a bit more of the heat from that sun.
An evocative show, which often delivers very beautiful passages of physical performance
The five-member troupe are all very skilled performers, and there is great fluidity as they move between passages of action that by turns showcase individual talents and the ability to work together in often flawless precision. They spin, dance, tumble, flip, and twist through sections in which candles are passed around, balance is tested, and some very striking physical imagery is presented on the stage.
Further gymnastic feats are presented when a few bits of equipment are introduced. The performers take to the air with some impressive work on a rope, a trapeze, and spinning in an aerial hoop. It’s often very impressive, and sometimes quite dizzying, stuff.
A passage with a hula hoop proves another highlight. It’s one of the few sections of the show that provides some levity. There’s a clear warmth coming from the performers in Apricity, but that often doesn’t shine through in the staging of the acts. Despite one or two breaks in mood, the overall feel of the show is solemn, and although it does lead to some breathtaking moments, it can feel a bit much over the course of the hour.
Still, tonal niggles aside, Apricity remains a very well-crafted piece of performance. It’s one not just for circus and contemporary dance aficionados but for anyone interested in seeing a beautifully crafted performance from an incredibly skilled cast.