Lexicon at the Roundhouse
NoFit State breaks free from the clichés of predictable unconventionality in this two-hour circus spectacle. With the award-winning director Firenza Guidi at the helm, Lexicon quickly transports its audience into a new world – one “inhabited by quiet misfits and furious poetry” – where joy, magic and humour take the governing role.
The group was formed in the 1980s, a politically charged era that craved a creative and peaceful response. Today we are in a similar position, just overcoming a General Election and with the internet debating World War Three, many of us would happily be transported back to simpler times.
And this is what NoFit State provides – true escapism. Over the course of the performance, energetic childhood playtime on bikes, trikes, scooters and the rest is juxtaposed with all the more captivating, darker narratives. The absence of a storyline is not noticed, as a brooding figure flitting his way across a tightrope high above (Ellis Grover) and an angry bride-type, ascending forcefully towards the sky (Rosa-Marie Schmid), are soon replaced by an endearing globe walker (Davide Salodini) and a suave unicyclist (Sam Goodburn).
The lofty ceilings of Camden’s Roundhouse have been transformed into an intimate space in more ways than one by the jubilant anarchy taking place. As the performers fly about on stage, the riggers negotiate their way around the beams and the live band warp the atmosphere of the room, you find yourself wishing for more pairs of eyes to watch it all unfold. Every movement by every performer in this show is perfect artistry and completely fascinating, the ensemble pushing the boundaries between real and imaginary.
An undoubtedly unmissable performance, NoFit State’s Lexicon offers an experience that extends well beyond the traditional circus form of acrobats that we might recognise. Here dance, physical comedy, performance art and every discipline between come together to create something truly extraordinary.
Grace Walsh
Photos: Ambra Vernuccio
Lexicon is at the Roundhouse from 3rd January until 18th January 2020. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.
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