Douglas

Full-length: 50 minutes (approximately)

Douglas is at work with a number of simple objects found in the theatre space. Douglas is an exaggerated look at the body’s connections with our physical surroundings. It is a longing for sensation, to feel connected and alive in pain and pleasure. To not be alone.

A lone figure is framed through an exposed theatre staging with a number of simple objects. Through various interactions and constructed compositions with body and objects, the work pursues an idea of 'interconnectedness' where objects impart movement upon the body, and where body and object become interchangeable. A progressive structure is established through the performer's direct operation of lighting and sound. Harvesting potential energy through balance, weight and gravity, kinetic energy is unleashed sometimes with surprising results.

Douglas is designed to be adapted to specific performance spaces through its spacing and choreography. The work has its roots in the outdoors where the choreographer reflected on his everyday routine tasks and incidental events, often involving simple objects.

Douglas is a result of a choreographic practice that aims to extend movement beyond the body and blur the boundaries between body and object. The research and performance attempts to expand upon the body's manipulation of objects alone by achieving a clear agency and liveness of objects. Objects are not only representational but take action on the body, performing with varying (un)predictability.

Direction, choreography, performance: Robbie Synge
Sound: David Maxwell
Light: Brian Gorman
Dramaturgical Assistance: Peggy Olislaegers

Commissioned by Yorkshire Dance as part of the Respond_ Project, 2014.