Lucid

Chunky Move's latest offering Lucid explores the perception of self, the many faces worn by humans and the construction of reality in the digital world. Presenting these themes through the use of large screens, cameras and two performers, the set is relatively simple, yet the result is impressive and powerful. 

The relationship between Lauren Langlois and Stephen Phillips, the male and female performers, is not clear. They could be lovers or work together, or be two close friends. But one thing is evident — there is tension, affection and power play throughout the performance.

At times the show is frightening, Langlois working her incredibly bendy body into a schizophrenic frenzy, using the microphone as a tool to create a gremlin-like voice. Her long, tangled hair flies around, and her eyes seem possessed. While this reflection is made obvious through her voice and movement, it it enhanced by the camera positioning and the large, dominating size of her face on the big screen.

At other times it is humorous. Phillips skilfully contorts his face, from freaky to comical. Langlois impersonates a small child, peering curiously into the camera and skipping and jiggling up and down.

Sometimes it is fast-paced and the performers and images on the screens dart around the room so quickly that it is dizzying and exhausting in the most exhilarating way.