Barbarians - Brimming with Energy

Hofesh Shechter Company returned to Dance House, Vancouver, last night with Barbarians, a thrilling, gripping piece in three parts. I first saw the company perform in my native UK several years ago and I was equally enthralled by the experience this time. This is a dynamic, expressive performance, brimming with energy.

Having danced with Batsheva under the direction of Ohad Naharin, Shechter, in his work, displays the trademark intensity and subtlety of movement formed from a grounding in this unique lineage. Naharin’s own creation of a language of movement he calls Gaga is central to it. What unfolds is a performance of commitment and integrity that captivates its audience utterly. 

I was struck by the rhythmic quality of this work and its sense of design. Shechter is also a drummer and it manifests in the rhythmic threads and order in his choreography. It seemed that nothing was surplus. Every pause, gaze, movement is suggestive of a considered and detailed approach. There is something pleasing in its completeness. Stillness, lighting, blackouts, and even humour were used to great effect. Gold skin-tight suits and a scene where six dancers appear naked add to the sensual, sexual juiciness that bumps and grinds in a search for connection and meaning. The music is pulsing and loud, the lighting dramatic yet simple. Stillness contrasts with the seemingly effortless, fluid ensemble work where the moves are complex, detailed and exquisitely loose. I marvelled at how order seamlessly unravelled into chaos only to reform with no noticeable cues. 

This is an exciting, powerful work from a renowned choreographer, performed by a slick, committed, efficient company that know how to dance our human longings.