Birds with Skymirrors is an irresistible title. At once it conjures images of god-like creatures whose omnipresent mirrors reflect back to earth their privileged perspective of us. This is the mystical work from Samoan born, New Zealand based choreographer Lemi Ponifasio, who in his latest piece considers the degradation of current state of the environment, and equally, our conscious/unconscious complicity in it.
Skymirrors is a series of stunning images that are mesmerizing to watch as they unfold to present recurring themes. Throughout the 90 minute performance we see dancers referencing elements of nature in their movement—slow, sinuous, rhythmic movements that can be interpreted as “water,” anthropomorphic figures that appear divinely on stage, and more subtly, gestures that undeniably go beyond our human repertoire. The twitching fingers of dancers, for example, move out from their bodies like antennae sensing their surroundings, instinctively and purposefully.
There is very little decorative or embellished choreography in Skymirrors. But a certain beauty results from the exact and precise movements that are in sync with the expertly crafted sound environment of the piece. The base of this soundscape is akin to a radio frequency not quite in tune while trying to channel a clear signal from a distant place. The elements of wind, water and space are relayed to the stage through this fuzzy signal and somehow the dancers take their cues from it. They are in tune with it—connected to the earth-sounds that surround them. The meaning for the audience comes through the in-tuned movements of the dancers: there is an intrinsic link between humans and our surroundings, and a beautiful balance that results when that connection is made.
In the most engaging sequences, the dancers move to an evenly measured tempo in unison. There are elements of ritual here: rhythmic and repetitive movements that build in magnitude. These combined elements prompt a contemplative response in the audience. We are meant to be lulled and calmed in order to pay greater attention—not only to the unfolding events of the stage but more so to be conscious of what the performance is conveying. Skymirrors serves as a reflection of us, our awareness and connection to our surroundings, the devastation that results from our oblivion, and the beauty that results from us paying attention.
Birds with Skymirrors is at the National Arts Center tonight.
