Given that even the word ‘Palestinian’ is now politically loaded, the most trenchant line comes in this production from a recorded voice: ‘joy is a form of resistance’. The show gestures towards representing elements of Palestinian culture, not least through the pounding soundtrack but remains a celebration of human physicality, the ability of trained bodies to fly in space, to ascend the pole and ropes and silks and frighten the audience with a sudden controlled and perfectly executed fall.
The voice-overs that emerge between the routines make broad, even abstract points that, of course, speak to the violence being enacted on Palestine and the dance interludes revel in shared community. It is the aerial sequences that hit the hardest: moments may take on a darker resonance as when a body simply hangs above the stage but the impact comes from the acrobatic excellence and an almost old-fashioned variety-style sheer entertainment.
Another voice hints that words are not enough, and the circus embraces the power of bodies moving together or demonstrating exceptional skills. Life-affirming and aimed at all ages, Step and A Half is a triumph of traditional routines, wowing and seducing the audience with remarkable feats.
The Palestinian Circus: Step and a Half, Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows, until 29 Aug (not 24), 2.05pm