bach2.txt

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http://www.nightnews.net/fringe2007.htm#bchic
Title: Bacchic
4 gold bats

23 08 07 - Bacchic was another version of Euripides Bacchae and
definitely the best and most original presentation that I saw at
the 2007 Fringe. This was an AOD: 'Actors of Dionysus' 
performance and it has to be said that the spirit of Dionysus 
was not far off as this captivating performance unfolded. Tamsin 
Shasha wrote, performed and provided the artistic direction for 
the show which was well supported by fellow professionals with 
special reference to aerial advice. Integrating circus skills and
using a rope to develop and highlight the narrative must count as
a master stroke of genius. Tamsin Shasha delivered the whole story
in movement and music as a striking and thoughtful piece of aerial
theatre. This worked to weave an enticing exuberance that hinted 
at the sexual as Tamsin coiled the rope around her body, defied
gravity, experienced ecstasy and was transformed into another 
being. The literal narrative of Euripides story was not far off
the original and quickly recognisable, though updated and adapted
freely in a 'what if' style. Tamsin played the Dionysian god and 
her nemesis 'Maddie' in a dialogue of opposites. With two 
approaches to the truth only one can be predominant. Though Maddie
is allowed to experience 'bacchic' moments she shuts her heart to
Dionysus and is sacrificed by the Bacchae in an act of ugliness 
that is as terrible as it is beautiful. As Maddie is immortalised 
by this, Dionysus is in turn discredited, the instrument of her end 
is that of his own undoing. AOD's production is well in keeping 
with the sentiments behind the original story and Tamsin Shasha is
compelling throughout.

By John Vassallo