Mano a Mano

A very small theatre. A very large battered cardboard box. A tiny feather periscope observes the audience.

Mano a Mano

Then a large man with an equally battered briefcase overfills what space remains. So begins an encounter between two very different men – one huge and be-suited though probably hitting hard times, the other whimsical, sly, slender and definitely a street survivor.

Their encounter starts with classic male competition - sneaking each others' slight possessions and showing off. But the tension grows until a fight erupts, bodies entwine, the big bloke decks and boots the punk, from nowhere they kiss and recoil aghast. Now they're connected.

So they explore that connection, console each other, play with the audience, deal with the elements and end up…well you'll have to go and see it.

There are no words, though the skinny guy keens and chatters. The two characters establish themselves quickly through physical presence, facial expression, and the way they use that cardboard box. Their story unfolds slowly until the tightly choreographed and danced fight sequence, which is in turn relieved by mime and comedy.

What's it about? Life on the street, male relationships, solidarity, the human condition...'Waiting for Godot' without the words. It's the kind of unexpected and quirky pleasure you happen upon at a festival and it's definitely worth 40 minutes of your time.

Catch Mano a Mano, by Dutch company Mr Saiqo, at Junkyard Dogs, Edward St, Brighton. Last show 25 May 6pm

Mr Saiqo is also presenting BARRERA at the Warren Studio 2 from 30 May-2 June.

Part of the Dutch Season at Brighton Fringe 2017

Author

Diana Walton

Diana Walton Voice Team

I'm the director of Upstart Projects which supports the Voice Team and other young creatives to run great projects. Proud to have been involved with Arts Award since it was a twinkle in the eye, and to watch it build many young people's brilliant artistic and leadership skills. And now we can shout about these on Arts Award Voice!

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2 Comments

  • Luke Taylor

    On 26 May 2017, 09:39 Luke Taylor Contributor commented:

    What an interesting way to portray masculinity in modern society :)

  • Bhavesh Jadva

    On 27 May 2017, 10:19 Bhavesh Jadva Voice Team commented:

    This sounds so much like Give Me Your Love that I saw at The Lowry a couple of months ago. I'd love to see this!

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