Ockham's Razor - Tess
A groundbreaking adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s classic novel Tess of the D’Urbervilles by Alex Harvey and Charlotte Mooney of Ockham’s Razor, a contemporary circus company who combine circus and visual theatre to make work that is arresting and entertaining.
An ensemble of performers weave together Hardy’s words and the extreme physicality of circus to tell this tale of power, loss and endurance.
Against a backdrop of shifting projections the cast wield wooden planks, climb shifting walls and move through ropes and swathes of linen to evoke the vast landscapes and interior worlds of Hardy’s Wessex.
It is a story which still has extraordinary relevance for our times in its incredibly nuanced evocation of female relationships, sexual desire, consent, privilege and poverty.
This retelling captures the beauty, heartbreak and yearning of the novel and draws upon the incredible strength of the circus body to create a Tess as heroic as Hardy intended.
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Ockham's Razor - Tess ON TOUR
Our review on Ockham's Razor - Tess
Tess%20-%20HOME%2C%20Manchester%20-%20Thursday%206th%20June by Julie Wilson
Our Rating
Blending narrative and movement to create the Theatrical adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s “Tess of the d’Urbervilles” produced a unique performance. The dual approach of Tess played by Hanora Kamen narrating her own story while Lila Naurse brought the characters experiences through dance created a powerful dynamic that emphasized the emotional weight of the narrative.
The minimalist staging design by Tina Bicat allowed the audience imagination to capture the feelings and emotions of the play. The use of ceiling-high fences and linen sheets creates an intimate yet expansive space with the cast moving within. The performers (Lauren Jamieson, Victoria Skillen, Leah Wallings, Joshua Frazer, Nat Whittingham and Lila Naruse) effectively distinguishes between characters with varying styles or choreography (Nathan Johnson), illustrating the contrast in their personalities and roles within the story.
Alec D’Ubervville’s portrayal through the cyr wheel adds a striking visual element, symbolizing both charm and entrapment. The sound of the wheel adding a harsh note to the otherwise silent atmosphere highlighting the tension present in Tess’s journey. His serpent-like movements further enhances the felling of a lurking danger that shadows Tess.
The performance had light hearted moments as well as profound tragedy. The milking scene, was cleverly executed with the use of imaginative cattle, which offered a respite from the heavier themes, showcasing the cast’s ability to bring humour to the narrative. The flirtation between the milkmaids and Angel added a further delight to the story’s humour which created a vibrant atmosphere that contrasted sharply with Tess’ eventual plight.
The dynamic use of wooden planks as versatile staging elements truly enhances the visual storytelling of the performance. The constant assembly and disassembly of these planks not only creates various structures such as fences, tables, a house, but also reflects the fluidity of Tess's world. This adaptability allows for seamless transitions between scenes, which is essential in maintaining the narrative flow. Tess’s precarious walking on these narrow boards further emphasises her vulnerability.
Angel Clare's, Nat Whittingham’s torment, depicted through writhing and frantic movements, conveys his internal struggle and emotional turmoil. This is vividly contrasted with the milkmaids' back-bending walks, evoking images of despair. This visual representation underscores the themes of suffering and societal pressures, enhancing the audience's understanding of the characters' fates.
Moreover, the innovative staging elevates the emotional resonance of the story, allowing audiences to connect more deeply with the characters' struggles and triumphs.
In essence, this blend of creativity and thoughtful staging not only enhances the overall aesthetic experience but also enriches the narrative, making it a powerful and unforgettable theatrical journey for all who witness it.
