Industrial "Krautrockers" Einstürzende Neubauten are most unlikely suppliers of music for a Japanese dance piece. That it comes off is testimony to the vision of Indian-Japanese choreographer and lead dancer Shakti, who has produced a work of power and grace. It bears little relation to the Rashomon story we know from Kurosawa's film, dwelling on a more metaphysical conflict between the principles of Eros and Thanatos as Shakti's character attempts to reconcile these competing impulses. The three principals and chorus are tightly drilled, exhibiting a fluid economy of movement in their blend of traditional Japanese and modern dance. A glory.
Written for The Independent.
Copyright © Ian Shuttleworth; all rights reserved.
Return to index of reviews for the year 1995