Uptown Review

Our first review came out today in the Uptown. Thanks to Kenton Smith:

FOUR STARS!!!

"How much Strindberg there actually is in this spare but lush 40-minute production, I’m not sure.

But you know what? Who cares: this is a beautiful, beguiling little piece of theatre.

The Big Gravel Sifter is based on one of August Strindberg’s short stories, as adapted by Jason Hooper. What distinguishes it is its rather brilliant use of minimalist production values. The show doesn’t boast a set, exactly, save for what appears to be more of an art installation, enhanced by projected imagery dancing upon it.

It’s this immediately impressive tableau, taken together with the costumes, lighting, space and movement, that creates a sense of density – even lushness – that’s arresting. (The driving, sometimes eerie live piano accompaniment also lends much added value to the spectacle.)

Essentially, the story concerns three women – who first appear to us like three Rose the Riveters – attempting to dredge something precious and lost from underwater. Just what that is not so important: what matters are the emotions attached, to what is clearly gone and irretrievable. Or perhaps merely elusive – even illusory. It’s more about tone and mood, this show.

Like Theatre Incarnate’s "new adaptive creation" Dionysius is Getting Impatient, inspired by Strindberg’s work and life, The Big Gravel Sifter is also a striking display of physical theatre – with the added benefit of former Royal Winnipeg Ballet performer CindyMarie Small literally shedding her initial costume, to become something of a dancing butterfly before our eyes.

Like Dionysius, this is just a beautifully composed piece of theatre: the visuals, the music, the choreography and the very rhythm work together to complete an aesthetic symmetry. It casts a moody spell. And at such a tight running time, you won’t even overdose on artiness. Give this one a try."