Dolls

Excellent on one level but shoddy on another, Dolls is a very frustrating theatrical experience.

The concept is rather interesting: following three couples in different forms of ‘relationship crises’ and giving their predicaments symbolic and abstract interpretations. Unfortunately, these impressive interpretations trump any sense of emotional investment one may feel towards the characters.

Based on an acclaimed Japanese film from 2002, Dolls offers a couple bound together with a thick red rope, a woman consistently waiting on an absent boyfriend and an obsessed fan of a pop star who becomes a semi-stalker (albeit a benevolent one). The production offers a parade of fascinating visuals and arresting movement and is accompanied by a rather impressive live score provided by Zoey van Goey.

The choreography and direction are sublime, and the production offers numerous visuals and music that are hypnotic and difficult to forget. Much of the story is told through beautifully choreographed and orchestrated scenes, with music and movement speaking volumes. It feels like a theatrical ballet, with small interludes of dialogue offering explanation over the choreography.

Which comes to the production’s great flaw: from the second any actor opened their mouth I immediately lost interest. The written words fail to carry a fraction of the artistic weight as the movement. One glance or turn from any of the six characters said far more than any of the scripted scenes or monologues, resulting in scenes that bogged the production and brought emotional connection to a halt.

If only the characters were given words that carry as much weight as their actions, and if only the audience were allowed some sense of emotional payoff with each of the characters, something special would be here rather than a potential piece unfulfilled. Instead, what is presented is a fragile production that looks beautiful but is actually hollow. Much like a doll, really.