As evidenced by UK performers New Art Club, it’s entirely possible to successfully fuse comedy and contemporary dance. Unfortunately, this 50-minute show by WAAPA-trained dancers Helen Duncan and Quin Orton and deadpan UK comedian Jayde Adams fails to consistently combine its constituent parts. Consequently, it often falls flat. Material about awkward encounters with ex-boyfriends, the pressure to impress in nightclubs, and the rules and rituals of women’s friendships is insightful and finessed, but the inclusion of a video sequence about online dating, while droll, jars. An early montage of 80’s dance moves also feels forced.
Missed sound cues and poor lighting further disrupted proceedings on open night.
Duncan, the oldest of the three performers, moves with skill and precision. The ganglier Orton’s performance is effective but less focused. Adams, originally from Bristol, sometimes struggles to translate her English references and subject matter.
Overall, more miss than hit.
Rating: 2.5 stars out of 5
3’s Company 2’s a Party are Fresh Out the Fringe
Revolt Melbourne, until April 8
Tue-Thu 8.15pm, Fri-sat 9.30pm & Sun 6pm
$13-22.50
An edited version of this review appeared in The Age on Saturday 31st March 2012.
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