Review: BACKBONE at Aotea Centre Auckland

'Backbone' examines the various perceptions of what strength is. From the company 'Gravity and Other Myths', this show is a frenetic celebration of human interconnectedness.

Held in the ASB Theatre in the Aotea Centre, the audience was captivated by the limits-pushing performances. Holding the attention of such a large audience size was not an issue to these skilled performers and well put together piece.

'Backbone' tests the limits of physical, emotional, individual and collective human capability.

Life has its twists and turns, it is a balancing act and we need each other. Humans need each other.

Throughout this performance and whilst appreciating the tremendous, skill, muscle and brains to carry out the acrobatic marvel on stage, it resonated very strongly that we must come together with all our strength and more in times of adversity. We are capable of more.

The tragic events that occur around our world daily highlight the need for us to come together in our strength more than ever.

The performers pushed themselves beyond the limits of gravity, balance and strength. Each performance illuminated that we are only limited by ourselves. These incredible performers were bound together in their safety but also extended great trust, literally putting their lives at risk.

The lighting is sensational and the live musicians enhance the incredible work of the performers with their original compositions. Every composition enhanced the movement of the story being performed. It was difficult to believe that just two people were the masters of the variety of instruments being played.

Backbone
Aotea Centre, Auckland
Bookings: https://www.aucklandfestival.co.nz/events/backbone/

Creative Team
Acrobats: Martin Schreiber, Lachlan Binns, Jascha Boyce, Jacob Randell, Lewie West, Lewis Rankin, Joanne Curry, Mieke Lizotte, Lachlan Harper and Jackson Manson
Musician/Composers: Elliot Zoerner and Shenton Gregory
Director: Darcy Grant
Stage & Lighting Designer: Geoff Cobham
Producer: Craig Harrison
Creative Associate: Triton Tunis-Mitchell