By Fahdia Msaka
Water, fire, earth, and air. It is said that when we die, these four elements dissolve one by one. Each into the other and finally, into space. Thus, our existence as a human race is deeply rooted in the presence of these elements.
Dancers are commonly referred to as ‘the athletes of art’ due to their articulate, and intentional movements. Whereas the four elements are seen as out of control – larger than life. So, when the members of Prestige School of Dance attempt to produce a visual interpretation of nature in Don’t Dismiss The Elements, it makes for a riveting show.
All dancers are from differing age and racial groups, reiterating that Earth belongs to everyone, irrespective of demographic. Each performer brings an element to life. However, the intensity of fire performed by Anelisa Centane, steals the show. She portrays the magnitude of fire through a blazing hip-hop number. “The fire part was my favourite. It was amazing,” says an audience member exiting the Great Hall.
The director and choreographer, Nicole Joka, brings our attention and focus to a fifth element; chaos. Each area of the stage is occupied with juxtapositions, articulating the chaos of modern life. We see people in downward dog amongst litter on the road, and architects outlining new developments whilst cleaners sweep the road. These scenes create anxiety and worry whilst simultaneously displaying how, through medical and technological advancements, we have lost our connection to the four elements.
Whether a lover of dance or not, brace the elements and give this piece a go.
Don’t Dismiss The Elements is on at Great Hall until 27 June.
