The official opening night of the Dunedin Arts Festival saw a brand new work by Dunedin-born dancer and choreographer Jeremy Beck. Using the concept of "Saturn Return" as inspiration, Company Beck presents Commentary of Dreaming and it is a return to a feeling of growing up in Dunedin — a uniquely special feeling for those lucky enough to have experienced it.
"Saturn Return" is essentially the passing from youth into adulthood, and this piece depicts it in spades. It begins very contemplative, but soon transports you back to a carefree and joyous time surrounded by friends where you seemingly have no cares in the world and then suddenly reality sets in and life just got real.
Beck has assembled a surprising mix of professional contemporary dancers (Kilda Northcott, Aloalii Tapu, Olivia McGregor, Christopher Ofanoa and Jemima Smith) and 15 of his family and friends to make up the ensemble. It’s a brave move, but one that is brilliant, endearing and inspiring. The group dance scenes really do make you want to get up and join them, they all just emit fun and pure bliss.
Beck is a beautiful dancer to watch: his early classical training coming through at times in his movements, but he is also deliberate in his choreography.
Smith was a standout, particularly in her solo. Tapu’s ability to isolate parts of his body in his steps and progressions, but then have this pure grace, was an unexpected and delightful surprise.
The set design is by Jeremy and Timothy Beck and consists of a solitary lamp-post with a tannoy attached, along with the brief appearance of a couch, lighting design by Martyn Roberts and sound design by Benny Jennings. This team has created a dynamic production that deserves another outing or 10. This work is contemplative, frenzied and definitely a little bit bonkers, but in all the right ways!
Review by Penny Neilson
