Striking and bold, not for glory sees three performers reclaim the traditional dance and music of their childhoods. The dance-theatre gig asks both how tradition shapes us and how we shape it – from historical violence, to queerness, to familial bonds. Vibrantly honest, not for glory is a thoughtful dissection of heritage and all its complexities.
Music glitches and remixes itself, while the dancing – strong, precise – likewise splinters across the stage. Each work is brilliantly accomplished and it’s a joy to witness the performers watch each other’s solos with the understandable visible awe. Throughout dances and songs, the performers share their experiences of traditional Irish and Scottish culture; their reflections are honest, insightful. Humour is interwoven into such speech, bringing a warmth and levity that further endears us to the performers and their art. This welcome continues, with shortbread and Irn Bru finding its way into keen audience hands.
not for glory isn’t afraid to strip it back, refusing to lean into a grandeur which is all too often aligned with the traditions it is attempting to unravel. We’re admittedly left wanting after a more climatic finish, however, the show’s gentle conclusion again signals its empowered disregard of tradition for tradition’s sake.
not for glory, Assembly @ Dance Base, until 23 Aug, 7.45pm