This is Not a Love Story – Project Arts Centre (Space Upstairs) -Review

Dates – Oct 13-14

We are introduced to these two characters in flamboyant fashion. As they emerge on stage, we hear a crash of thunder and strobe lights are used to emulate lightning. The stage fills with dry ice as one actor carries the other off stage. A dramatic introduction but after this point the pace drops significantly as we are immersed in a world of minimalist theatre.

This is the work of Swedish theatre makers Gunilla Heilborn, Johan Thelander and Kristiina Viiala. Two of these, Johan and Kristiina, also appear on stage. They all have a background in dance and that sets the tone for this production. The emphasis is not on traditional storytelling and there is no clear connection between the various segments. The stage is almost barren, with a couple of pot plants and a banner showing the name of the production on the ground.

At times we hear about Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen and his attempts to reach the North Pole. In one scene the actors perform a segment from a famous 70s road movie. Other scenes are improvised as the actors discuss a variety of trivial and obscure topics. Dance segments break up the scenes, the dance is also quite low key, another subtle element in this production.

This work was developed by the theatre makers over a number of years at various locations around Europe. The process was gradual, with different ideas and thought processes grabbing the attention of those involved at different times. As they brought in new elements, others were removed. The emphasis of the production is on creating a sense of calm.  It is a gentle production, where so much on stage is filled with vigour and intensity. It creates a stillness that you are not used to seeing on stage, capturing the quieter moments in life. The dance scenes are the highlight and the slow sweeping movements are quite graceful.

Director and author of concept Gunilla Heilborn
Choreograpers and authors of text Gunilla Heilborn, Johan Thelander, Kristiina Viiala
Set and costume designer Katarina Wiklund
Lighting designer Miriam Helleday
Author of music Kim Hiorthoy
Sound designer Johan Adling
Technical coordinator Axel Norén
Managing director Asa Edgren/Loco World

Cast –
Johan Thelander, Kristiina Viiala