Brink

A new duet from choreographer Eileen McClory, Brink negotiates the fragile balance for survival when our future is entrusted to another.

CHOREOGRAPHER’S NOTE

Brink was created as a response to the tension, confusion, frustration and division caused after the Brexit vote in 2016. Feeling like we’re on the brink of something unimaginable that we have no control over, the work explores the fragile nature of the human condition and how even the most utopian dreams are flawed by humanity’s greatest weakness, greed. I was compelled to make a work that explores the futile, divisive nature of high-risk negotiations where human existence is laid bare, even the smallest mistake or misjudgement could be fatal and everything is ‘on the table’.

Maiden Voyage gratefully acknowledges the support of Principal Funder Arts Council of Northern Ireland; and Multi Annual Funding from Belfast City Council.

AUDIENCE COMMENTS

“I loved how relevant the topic was, the confined space was interesting and thought-provoking element to the performance. The choreography provoked an emotional response to a political issue which as a non-UK citizen may not have occurred previously.”

“Unbelievable, loved the start position. The belly breathing on top of each other. On top of a table was great thinking rather than sitting around a table. The push pull of the stress and uncertainty was very apparent and clear. Fantastic and excellent execution of the meaning of the performance. The fight on both sides – shall we stay, or shall we go – EXIT always in the brink – on or off the table – very exciting and gripping – at times I stopped breathing – tension and fear was so clear.”

“Excellent performance, very altheltic, high energy ‘edge of seat’ exhausting to watch, required great concentrtation, incredible movement on a confined space, conveyed terrific range of emotion, fluid movement, captured attention, captivating, fluent expression.”

“Wonderful sense of (literally) living on the edge of the abyss. Pushing and shoving one another to reach for things. Moments of nearly falling off that which supports us / imprisons us. An island people with island needs.”