Rabid Reviewer, KC Fringe Festival
Jul 26, 2008
This show is an absolute must-see.
What is improscaping? It’s Mime meets Modern Dance. It is an exploration of the self through movement, costume, and character.
Improscaping is a one-woman show involving a series of taped introductions in which close personal friends of the dancer, Susanne Carter, are interviewed and asked to tell their relationship and opinions of Susanne as a person.
While the audience gains insight into the performer, some point or topic mentioned in the interview becomes the theme of a structured, improvised dance routine.
Each scene involves a new character or personality derived from the dancer herself, and the theme is explored.
People who are not familiar or appreciative of dance in general should enjoy this show, because it makes the meanings behind the movements much clearer.
Susanne Carter also creates fully-realized characterizations that are entertaining and engaging. She uses a variety of props to tell the story of each dance movement, as well as creating symbolism that is not the usual vague, obtuse symbolism known only to the dancer, nor the slegehammer hit on the head of other performances. We understand the context of the dance from the introductory recordings, and we are able to discern the subtle symbolism created.
Balloons, beach towels, and an amazing moment with a scarf all combine to create a compelling evening. If you have not previously planned on seeing this performance, please change your plans to include it in your roster.
It won’t be around much longer, and you will wish you had seen it.