The Curiosities – by Sue Healey

Performance Space at Carriageworks
October 29th

By Kristy Johnson.

Performance Space at CarriageWorks provides a unique opportunity for audience members to come face-to-face with the artists in an intimate setting. The Curiosities by Sue Healey enabled audience members to feel a part of the piece that was performed before their eyes.

The Curiosities is a contemporary piece, connecting art with science and demonstrating an appreciation of the human body and all its intricacies. Collaborating with The Victor Chang Cardiac Institute, Critical Path, the University of New South Wales and fashion label Zambesi, it was evident that The Curiosities underwent an in-depth choreographic process. With Sue Healey recognised in Australia for her unique contemporary works, it was no surprise to see industry greats in the audience such as Paul Mercurio from Dancing with the Stars and Strictly Ballroom.

Prior to viewing The Curiosities, I was unaware of Sue Healey’s previous works or choreographic style. Holding a strong interest in commercial dance styles, I was intrigued to see what Sue would bring to the table. With so many choreographers putting forward different interpretations of Contemporary dance, I was hoping to become a part of the journey with Sue Healey and her dancers.

I wish I could say that The Curiosities was a pleasant surprise, however unfortunately the vision behind the work went a little outside my personal comfort zone. Whilst a significant amount of time and effort would have gone into the creation of such a piece, I feel there is a fine line between pushing boundaries and creating new ideas. With large pictures of hearts and veins on the screen my stomach felt uncomfortable and I didn’t enjoy the performance as much as I had hoped. However, for those who enjoy choreographic pieces that involve a combination of science and art, The Curiosities may be very interesting and engaging.

Dancers Lisa Griffiths, Rachelle Hickson, Adam Synnott and Nalina Wait are great technicians of their craft. Their strength, agility and line were simply breathtaking. These dancers also played a significant part in the creation of the videography, with various cameos seen throughout.

For details on upcoming works at Performance Space, visit their website www.performancespace.com.au