Choregraphy: Cheng Tsung-lung
Company:Cloud Gate Dance Theatre
As the Dublin Dance Festival kicked off, I found myself at the mercy of 13 Tongues by Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan. The show, which graced the festival on the 14th of May was as enigmatic as its title suggests.
From the moment the lights dimmed, 13 Tongues whisked its spectators away to the bustling streets of Taipei’s Bangka district. The performance showcased both the culture and the dancers in a rich tapestry of light and dance, with the stage a canvas broadcasting the bright hues of Taiwan’s historic street life and its famed stories.
The dancers moved with almost otherworldly synchronicity, truly highlighting the human experience. The choreography by Cheng Tsung-lung felt poetic and raw, with movements echoing life’s various stages of chaos and harmony.
The music provided a diverse backdrop that was both haunting and uplifting. It was a journey through the streets, following both sound and movement, with each note pulling the viewer deeper along the flowing narrative.
As the performance unfolded, the dancers black costumes gave way to colour as lights and projections began to take up the stage creating a mesmerising display. It felt like we too had been dragged out of the dark void into a new world of light, vibrance and colour, leaving us in the technicolour of enlightenment.
13 Tongues is a 4.5 star production because of the way it captures the essence of the bustling streets of Taipei’s Bangja district. The performers deliver with exceptional skill, bringing the stories to life and the music by Lim Giong provides a rich experience. Everything is then brought together in a whirl of colour by the art and lighting designs, providing a stunning visual feast. 13 Tongues is must-see experience for its artistic bravery and wonderful storytelling.
Reviewed on 14th May 2024.
The Review's Hub Score
Vibrant, Innovative, Captivating
