Review: RUINS – Manipulate 2024

RUINS might be described as an abstract evolutionary dance journey encased within a geometric structure. Said geometry stems from the large, but not immense cube in which the entire production takes place. A sophisticated array of projections upon a webbing of transparent stage fabric eschews the need for other props. This leaves the square within clear for a trio of ‘Movement Artists’: Philip Alexander McDonald, Rita Hu and Suzi Cunningham. It is as efficient as it is ambitious.

These three, we are told through projected text, are the last humans on earth, kept alive by machinery. Shrouded in diaphanous robes, and elegantly anonymous, these last humans are plunged into a metamorphosis as the mechanical gives way to the organic. Akin to tormented butterflies emerging from cocoons they negotiate a dreamlike re-education guided by an amorphous, insectoid wisdom. Concepts of self, society and individuality blur and reform, changing into something more sympathetic with the natural order

Between the utterly invested performances of the movement artists, and a clever interplay between choreographies, lighting, and projected imagery, RUINS is a singularly trippy experience. Bodies slip in and out of visibility, whilst their distinct styles and shared talent for body transformation create a distinct narrative. Whether burrowing, soaring, struggling or accepting, RUINS resists a conventional plot whilst still conveying a meaningful journey.

RUINS is completed by Cucina Povera‘s outstanding, and hypnotic soundtrack. Encompassing everything from ambient noise to actively pulsing dance, it’s critical and not in the least incidental to the show’s success.

Ultimately it’s likely impossible to respond more fully to Donna Haraway’s reality-questioning explorations of reality than this. This visceral, practical exploration of inter-connectedness and cross-species awareness is a testament to immense ambition. There is a slight sense of anticlimax or incompleteness to the show’s finale, but embodying an alien type of harmony would challenge just about any dramaturg.

Ultimately RUINS is a show that Megahertz can rightly be proud of, and which will doubtlessly entertain, challenge and mystify the audiences fortunate enough to witness it. This is theQR’s final review from the 2024 Manipulate Festival – bravo to the entire team who spend all year tirelessly putting such a diverse, and magical programme together.

Featured Image: Brian Hartley

RUINS is produced by Megahertz in association with Feral (Jill Smith & Kathryn Boyle)

RUINS played The Studio, Edinburgh on February 11th 2024 as part of the Manipulate Festival. For more information, click here.