Comments on: Buried City | Urban Theatre Projects, Belvoir & Sydney Festival

By: Andrew Filmer

Andrew Filmer — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 06:12:21 +0000

Hi Gus, its rare that I get to see a production you’ve reviewed (given that I’m usually in another hemisphere), but its great to read this review, imbibe your enthusiasm, and recognize aspects of my experience in your description. You’re right that this isn’t a typical Festival show in its address to an audience; it puts you to work, and asks questions of you, your assumptions, prejudices and your half-thought out ideas and beliefs. I loved the way the performance generated such tension through physicality, rhythm and underscore, and then would open out and allow for a sense of drift. I really felt implicated in the action, and I’ve been worrying over the performance this week. I like that its shaken me in ways that that I need to think through.

So, its good to read a review that’s engaging with the work on its own terms – trying to account for the work of this work – rather than just viewing it through the lens of other dominant theatrical conventions.

P.S. Diana Simmonds’ review was just a rant. In response to her rhetorical question ‘What did I ever do to deserve this?’ I want to say ‘Actually, its not all about you.’

By: Augusta Supple

Augusta Supple — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 04:11:09 +0000

I’m so glad you are set to re-visit Buried City, James – and I think it’s awesome when you know that you need some time/perspective to read a piece of art which deserves more than a cursory glance.

Some pieces can survive a weary reviewer’s reading – especially if it asks nothing of them.

This asks a lot – so I suggest audiences go with a full stomach, empty bladder, feeling relaxed.

Can’t wait to read you (as always, James) and see if we disagree or agree – and on what!

By: James Waites

James Waites — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 04:05:55 +0000

Well done Gus I am looking (and always was) looking forward to my return visit – J