'Archetype' is a show born out of Adelaide’s grassroots poetry scene.
Created by four artists with a variety of talents, 'Archetype' combines powerful poetic verse, with jaw-dropping fire twirling and impeccable dance and choreography.
The artists’ words are expertly woven together into a poetic narrative, which is profound, introspective, and brings to light some of the unspoken forces of life and the inner psyche. The show is elemental, creating stories with imagery of earth, water, air and fire. It takes you on a journey through the elements as a natural and primal force, and as metaphors for phenomena of human existence.
'Archetype' creates a striking contrast between carefully crafted verse, and thoughtfully designed choreography and movement. The poetry is captivating and absorbing, touching on themes of home, culture, roots and identity. It explores meaning, reason or existence, and the relationship with passion. It also brings up ideas of reincarnation, destiny, love, closeness and distance.
The performance increases in energy toward the end, with a fire-twirling act that will have audiences on the edge of their seats. A sword of fire slices through the air in time with the music, radiating heat into the audience, and fire twirling shows a high level of artistry and finesse.
Throughout the show, the choreography and performance are synchronised to the music. Almost every moment seems to be part of the show, and transitions between acts are not jarring considering the variety of different art forms. However, at times the performance seems to lose energy, with the poets getting out of character, or perhaps not being amplified enough in the outdoor environment.
The location for the show, in the botanic gardens, looking out over a garden and a pond, fit perfectly with the theme. The setting of the sun was incorporated into the timing, with the use of lighting adding to the atmosphere.
The show is full of symbology, aided by words, movement, costume, and fire. In all it was a well-thought-out and unique performance, which pushes the boundaries of poetry and how it can be combined with other art forms.
