Six months after introducing themselves to the world with Antika,
the Harlekino Kollektiv are back with their new show, Zirkus.
Produced by the phenomenal Dira Kita and set in the
wonderful Sugar Club, Zirkus was packed with aerial artists, hoops,
silks, ropes, chains, burlesque performances, a two-piece house band, and at
least three DJs.
Like Antika, Zirkus was a three-part affair:
cabaret, club, and shibari performance. Unlike Antika, I stuck around
until the early hours of Sunday morning to experience it all.
My clubbing days are over. If I even thought about dancing —
or doing the old MJ shuffle — my back would start screaming at me and I’d be
rendered helpless. So I sat back with a
sugar-free Red Bull or two and vibed to the music as I checked photos, cleaned
lenses, and so on. The music was hypnotic, easy to get lost in;
I really enjoyed it.
The aerial performances were superb — and when you’re
working with some of the best aerialists in the country, why wouldn’t they be? Likewise, when your burlesque performer is an
award-winning artist known far and wide, you know you’re in for a good time.
Reviving their Antika role, the fabulous Abrakedavre
was back in command as the Zirkus ringleader, keeping the show running
at full tilt and, when needed, slowing things down in their own inimitable way.
Speaking of slowing things down, the night came to an end
with a dramatic and intense shibari exhibition. It had been a long time — maybe 20 years —
since I last saw shibari live, and I was intrigued. The lights turned red and the ceremony began.
It is hard to describe the care, caution, trust, and ultimately the beauty of
this performance, but I found it mesmerising.
And then the lights came on, and it was time for me to head
off into the night, my mind full of wonderful images, and, on the seat beside
me, a gift of a book called Sinners by an incredible Berlin-based
photographer, Gili Shani. I’ll treasure
it.
Just a quick word about the staff at the Sugar Club: yet
again, they were fantastic. I always
feel welcomed when I shoot in their beautiful venue, so thank you.
I’m excited to see what comes next from the Harlekino Kollektiv — and I’m probably not the only one.
Now for the photos.
