Director, choreographer, and performer James Batchelor has created an outstanding performance that explores the relative distance between objects in space. The ensemble for REDSHIFT consists of Amber McCartney, Jack Riley, Jacqueline Trapp, and Batchelor himself.

As the 2017 Next Move Artist Batchelor’s research considers both the minuscule and the epic. REDSHIFT is a combination of the smallest and slowest of slow movements combined with mammoth movements, I would say that that it crept into the territory of endurance art. Then at times the choreography would be wild and fluid. Batchelor created a surreal yet playful experience.

REDSHIFT was hypnotic — my gaze would become fixated on a tiny movement and I would be oblivious to the greater mechanics. Alternatively, I would be focused on one movement and my eyes would become sore because I didn’t want to blink and miss any action.

The overall design was intriguing. Batchelor worked with Amanda Carr on costumes that were quirky. I can definitely say the highlight of the evening were a pair of Velcro jumpsuits. I never thought the sound of giant Velcro suits detaching from each other would be so satisfying. I’ll let you use your imagination for the rest of that one.

The lighting and sound design by Annalise Rees and Morgan Hickinbotham was magical. The exterior noise of thunder and rain on the evening added to the ambience.

With performances such as REDSHIFT it is not hard to see why Chunky Move is the Australian flagship for contemporary dance. REDSHIFT marks the tenth anniversary of Next Move, a program that supports up and coming dancers and choreographers.

– Amber
Amber Bock is a freelance stage manager who is excited to keep you up to date with Melbourne’s best theatre.

REDSHIFT runs from 23 November – 2 December 2017 at Chunky Move Studios (70 mins, no interval).
This venue is accessible. Note there is some nudity.

Disclosure: The Plus Ones were invited guests of Purple Media.
Image credit: Purple Media.