PERTH FESTIVAL REVIEW: 'The Nature of Why', an immersive union of live orchestra and dance
Hailing from the UK, the British Paraorchestra has made their way over to the annual Perth Festival for an immersive medley of live orchestral music and dance. The Nature of Why is the definition of a live performance, and an experience that will give you goosebumps like no other.
Within the ethereality of the hour, each performer makes magic with their bodies and instruments in between interspersed audio excerpts of Richard Feynman’s inquisitive theories. It’s a space that breathes inclusivity, and where the professional disabled musicians of the British Paraorchestra are given the rightful chance to shine. From moving violin solos to the travelling sounds of the French horn, the British Paraorchestra demonstrate their piercing talents — which are perfectly complemented by four contemporary dancers and the Perth Symphony Orchestra’s string ensemble.
Interpret it as you will, but one thing is certain. The Nature of Why plays on the marriage of three key elements: music, movement and the audience. This isn’t a piece that has you observing from the corners of the Heath Ledger Theatre stage, but rather, one that urges you to interact with the disparity of forms unfolding before your eyes.
Moreover, the beauty lies in finding yourself entangled with people from all walks of life. As you explore different vantage points and move beneath the dappled light, you might find that your smile will meet another’s. There are no boundaries between musicians, dancers or the audience when it comes to the making of art, as evidenced by the audience joining in for a dance or two.
Both intimate and uplifting, The Nature of Why was (and is) truly deserving of the literal standing ovation that ensued for minutes. The only shame was the majority of stiff feet on part of the audience — so if you’re heading down to see this marvellous work of art, don’t be afraid to get involved!
