“Prism” is a magnificent, mind-bending dance experience that needs more exposure on the West Coast. Contemporary dance company, Tentacle Tribe from Montreal, showcased the Vancouver premier of Prism at the Cultch on Oct. 23, 2024 to an eager audience. So eager, you could feel the quiet excitement in the theatre as the show was about to begin.
The stage, a reflective surface, was framed by mirrored walls that moved throughout the 60 minute set and shifted the atmosphere between each “scene.” The clever use of mirrors added depth, pulling in the audience with optical illusions, at times making it hard to distinguish reality from reflection, and drew the audience deeper into the movements.
I initially expected much of the piece to be contemporary dance, but the influences of street dance were strung throughout. Liquid movements of popping, locking, whacking, and breakdancing to an ambient soundscape filled the theatre. Each dancer represented a solid colour (red, orange, yellow, green, blue). With their collective ability, the dancers created a kinetic and cohesive form with visual representations that were reminiscent of peering into a kaleidoscope. At times, the eye would lose focus trying to catch every movement made by each dancer, battling to decide what to focus on. Yet, their movements were seemingly chain reactions of each other. It almost felt scientific, as if we were observing refracted light in a crystal.
Each dancer was phenomenal, casting hypnotic powers over the audience. Their technical abilities were awe-inspiring, which perhaps is the key to manifesting such a visually fascinating concept by the Tentacle Tribe.
Even though “Prism” had no clear storyline, the dancers’ movement still drew emotions from the viewer. It gave me the feeling of being a part of a collective effort that is constantly in motion and yet being unable to break from the cycle. I found it interesting how by the end, the audience members were forced to see their own reflection as the mirrors inched closer and closer towards the orchestra. It made me wonder if the dancers were merely light particles trapped in a prism, or are we?
Overall, “Prism” is an outstanding piece of modern dance that pushes boundaries with its unique interpretation of street dance in the theatre setting. It celebrated the dancers’ versatility and highlighted the power of color, movement, and illusion, leaving the audience in awe and wanting more.
Learn about Tentacle Tribe here and visit The Cultch’s website for future shows.
-Maya Prasasto (Instagram)