Asian persuasion
Re - I, II, III Shen Wei Dance Arts Kwai Tsing Theatre Reviewed: Nov 6
New York-based Chinese choreographer Shen Wei is known for developing his own system of movement, the unique nature of which was demonstrated by his company, Shen Wei Dance Arts, in the Silk Road Arts Festival.
The programme consisted of three pieces inspired by Shen's travels in Asia. The movement is organic and fluid, yet precise. It looks effortless, although in fact the seamless flow demands exceptional control. The dancers are remarkable both individually and in their ability to give the sense of becoming a single body when they move as a group. The visual elements are simple but strong and the traditional music and recorded natural sound work well - Shen's choreography is notably rhythmic.
But while the pieces were superbly performed, with outstanding moments, the sum of their parts proved greater than the whole. The choreography lacks development and structure.
The Tibetan-themed Re I is performed to a backdrop of changing clouds, on a stage covered by a Buddhist mandala made up of coloured confetti. The piece has a hypnotic quality as the dancers - who do not interact - appear to meditate through movement.
The more substantive Re III examines the struggle between the individual and the group along with the contrast between rural and urban life. Groups of dancers march around the stage in perfect unison while individuals trapped in their midst run and flail in an effort to escape. Disappointingly, the second section is more conventional and the ending oddly abrupt.
The most satisfying work, Re II, incorporates elements of Cambodian dance and the sculptures of Angkor Wat. The feeling of the jungle is vividly evoked and the striking images of sculptured bodies are a justified and effective use of nudity.
