Produced by Vilma Pitrinaite
Review by Marina Funcasta
For such a short show, this seriously packed a punch. From the sound, to the movement, to the breath work, Vilma Pitrinaite attacks her work with a ferocity which is hard to capture with mediums that aren’t as tangible as the body. Her choreography is arresting, punching and thrusting towards herself in tireless cycles which dizzy even the audience.
Ultimately, a piece seeking solace, my final feeling leaving Dance Base was a sense of comfort, surprising for a work inspired by anti-Soviet resistance. A testament to the universality of her theme, the density of Pirtrinate’s choreography supersedes contextual trappings. She emerges as a warrior, fighting her scorpions of the mind in a series of belligerent, if not ritualistic, punches and thrusts.
For all her strength, the most vulnerable moments of her performance are probably the weakest points. Although useful for pacing, the bridge between the shifting energies feels forced at times – probably a credit to the intensity of her choreography. As opposed to flowing seamlessly, the piece translates as slightly jagged.
This said, for a half hour show, Pitrinate achieves more than many other pieces I have so far seen Fringe; a piece for a time where language feels unfruitful, this work hits at the emotional conquest which man takes upon himself against feelings of doubt and helplessness, and for this alone, I would recommend it to any Fringe goer.
Achieves More Than Many Others
When You’re Alone In Your Forest Always Remember You’re Not Alone runs at Assembly @ Dance Base
Running time: Thirty-five minutes without interval
Review by Marina Funcasta (contact@corrblimey.uk)
Marina is halfway through an English literature degree at Edinburgh University, wherein she has been (considerably) involved in the drama scene: enjoying performing with their Shakespeare Company shows, but also modern takes on Arthur Miller. However, Marina’s interests are wide-ranging under the theatre genre – enjoying abstract, more contemporary takes on shows (with a keen interest in Summerhall)
