Megalith

Exploring copper mining through the form of physical theatre, dance and techno music.

Megalith

The show began with a strange atmosphere. Technical difficulties and an error message blaring behind the actors. I almost wasn’t sure if the show had actually begun. But before long, a silent physical performer began experimenting with moving rocks around the stage, generating different sounds, created live by a musician on stage. 

Through the performance, rocks are smashed with ‘Neolithic’ tools and arranged by the performer. The rocks are treated like modern technology, with a helpful voice presenting troubleshooting advice. At moments, the whole scene becomes a cacophony of blaring music, violent rock-smashing and words flashing on the screen. And at other moments, there was a tense, meditative sort of ringing as concentric circles were formed on stage. 

The music was incredibly engaging, becoming a sort of a radio that picked up snatches of sound from the Flintstones to opera. I couldn’t stop watching sound artists rapidly create soundscapes out of nothing. 

To be honest, I’m not quite sure that I ‘got’ everything this show was trying to say. But I could feel the power of the message that company MECHANIMAL was trying to express. The links between ancient times, technology, and copper mining were definitely to think over and I certainly won’t be forgetting this show – it’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen before.  


For tickets and more information, visit edfringe.com

Header Image Credit: Chelsey Cliff

0 Comments

Post A Comment

You must be signed in to post a comment. Click here to sign in now

You might also like

West End Actor Interrogates Stereotyping Faced by Latinx People in Soho Theatre Solo Show

West End Actor Interrogates Stereotyping Faced by Latinx People in Soho Theatre Solo Show

by Daniel Miller

Read now