In the Mood for Frankie

           In the Mood for Frankie is an interpretive dance piece that, I believe, was the last performance of EMPAC's 10 year anniversary. Unlike many other performances this was free and not set in a stage, but rather in the lobby of EMPAC for anyone to come and see. It was set on three unassuming large tiles, with goldfish in the middle of two of them. I don't claim to be an expert in interpreting anything, I could not follow the story. But that didn't matter to me, I enjoyed the show. Watching the dancers fluid, unpredictable movements, their innate balance, the costume changes, all of it added to this atmosphere of peace and tranquility that was just very relaxing. After reading more on what this was based on, I understand that things were not calm and tranquil, but like I said before I’m awful at interpretation.

            What I gathered through a little bit of research was that this was based on Japanese Butoh, and had to do with a wedding, a marriage, and an end to that marriage. The costume changes signified different characters, and also a change in characters from before, with different costumes acting as symbols of the characters feelings. The performance was centered on 3 performers on a stage made of the three tiles mentioned in the beginning. The performance began with slow music and one performer who was, I believe, wherein a shawl, or something to cover most of his face. His movements were slow, but fluid, his heels never touching the floor his face never changing from his stoic expression. The second performer came out to a change in music, his face one of a happier emotion, his movements slightly faster but also extremely fluid, and his heels never touched the floor. The third performer came out, and my memory may be failing, but this time there was no change in music. The third performer’s movement style was similar to the seconds, slightly faster and with an air of happiness, his heels also never touched the floor. After the beginning scene, the performers began intermingling in scenes, which was contrary to the first part where they acted very separately. The dynamic scene changes, mixed with the fluid costume changes made it seem as if there were far more than just three performers.  

Throughout all of the fluid scene changes, the costume changes, and being under the incredibly bright and hot lights, the performance never once faltered. After they got off stage, I could see them wiping off massive amounts of sweat from only 2 or 3 minutes of being on stage, and then almost immediately getting back on stage for an even longer time. The time, commitment, and dedication of the performers to this absolutely beautiful piece made it that much more enjoyable to watch.