SLAT – the stuff of beautiful nightmares

SLAT is intoxicating, yet the stuff of nightmares. A wild and energetic exploration of movement and sound in an intimidating warehouse-style space, this show has a magnetism that is both beautiful and alarming. Combining mesmerising and visceral performances with image projection, the cast skillfully displays the power and misuse of language.

Initially watching the movements of the untamed wolf-child through sheets of floor-to-ceiling muslin, you witness the exploration of basic, feral instincts. Various haunting percussion instruments attack the senses and everything moves in time with the pendulous swing of a bare, low-hanging bulb. As you watch the character learn about her emotions, the shadows creep and mimic her fear of the unknown. There is a very real sense of danger, of being almost under attack.

Moving to watch the rest of the show from the scaffolding, there is something intrinsically unsettling about the power of such a viewing position. As the cast continue their performance, the movement, sound and visuals become increasingly plaintive, sweeping a feeling akin to guilt through the audience.

Menacing and ethereal, SLAT is an intelligent, experiment show which uses the absence of language to show its power. It is truly spectacular!


Elizabeth rose Murray - Festival blogger