Cailleach is a performance-based
piece created in partnership between the Mull Theatre and Sonder Circus. It’s performed and carried out by Lauren
Jamieson, with Joanna Vymeris because the Bride and Ashley Smith because the Narrator.
The trio encapsulate the mythological battle of the seasons, which has been
subtly occurring for generations.
The Cailleach is initially from Gaelic dialect, with
the phrase actually that means “outdated girl, hag”, however was included inside
Highland mythology to symbolize a being who reigns over the winter seasons. In
distinction, Bride is a illustration of spring-time; she patiently awaits her
season’s return with the entire life and lightweight which comes together with it. This
forty-minute efficiency presents the battle between these two goddesses,
their seasons, and the way every makes an attempt to regulate the pure panorama.
From its outset, this efficiency (obtainable on demand and
on-line) is stunningly stunning. It artfully captures the presumed Highland
Panorama, reminding any viewer of the true energy and sweetness within the pure
world. The pure setting is deeply efficient for this folklore-ian retelling
of a maybe forgotten mythology.
What makes this piece so fascinating to observe is the incorporation
of the breathtaking panorama, the mythological story, and using
acrobatics because the means by which to painting it. The usage of fashionable
interpretative dance evolves into extra cardio based mostly motion and eventually a
very fashionable use of a hoop within the remaining elements of the piece. With ballet
included in actions, Cailleach makes use of the sculptural nature
of the physique inside the setting of the woodland panorama, to create an
evocative re-imagining of those nature based mostly legends.
The efficiency permits for a contemporary and refreshing interpretation of highland
goddesses. Jamieson’s efficiency permits for the Cailleach to be
offered as sturdy, highly effective, daring, and courageous, all traits of the
winter season. One significantly admirable high quality to this piece is the fragile use
of costume and the textures inside them. The illuminating high quality of the
varied light-toned costumes forcefully contrasts to quite a few outside settings
used. It’s easy, however deeply efficient strategies similar to this which add to
the complexity of the three main characters and the pure battle we see
happening.
At its coronary heart, this can be a piece all in regards to the battle of the seasons. This provides each narrative and drama to one thing which resulting from its sluggish prevalence in busy, fashionable life might be simply forgotten or taken without any consideration. Cailleach permits for the wildness of girls and particularly mythological feminine beings to be examined and celebrated. The last word parting message, which encapsulates this efficiency, is that traditions could fade however we are able to at all times connect with outdated customs and knowledge. This piece is a well timed reminder of the previous energy which each the seasons and mythology had in our society, and that that is one folklore custom which should be cherished and stored alive.
Cailleach is on the market to stream on-line till 28 August. For extra info and tickets see Mull Theatre’s web site.
