A Night’s Game, choreographed and performed by Alleyne Dance, a British company founded by twin sisters Kristina and Sadé Alleyne, was presented on 23 and 24 July 2024 at DOCK 11, as a part of the b12 festival.
As I watch the piece, I think to myself that this work poses more questions than answers. At the same time, however, I feel that no answers are necessary, as I can take simple pleasure in witnessing two strong dancers moving virtuosically in a secure physical and emotional connection with one another.
The program notes that A Night’s Game is about ‘the turmoil and strife of human emotion when faced with the prospect of incarceration’ and that it ‘explores the mind’s journey as the contemplation of the loss of freedom engulfs every waking moment.’
I do recognise some direct metaphors of imprisonment: A rectangular light frame at centre stage that the dancers get confined in. Sounds of metal doors opening and closing. A scene reminiscent of the well-known movie still from The Shawshank Redemption, where the two dancers each stand under a pool of very bright light with their chests and arms open.
Although the relationship between the dancers remains ambiguous at various moments, I clearly sense the tangible mutual affirmation that their togetherness creates. It is as if the cause of anguish is the absence of the other, but as soon as they are in each other’s presence, a feeling of security radiates. Throughout the piece, the two dancers continuously make eye contact, nod and smile at each other. They engage in frequent weight sharing, lifts, and unisons. Even at times when they are pushing each other away with force, their interactions convey a reassuring tenderness. They also display apparent attentiveness to each other: for example, when one dancer, caught in a rectangular frame of light, falls to the floor, the other brings water. Their dynamic reminds me of the rare experience of having a partner in crime whose supportive presence offers a sense of playfulness and confidence.
I enjoy watching the performers’ muscular bodies glistening with sweat. I can almost feel the warmth emanating from their moist skin. I appreciate noticing the difference in their bodies, movements, energy and facial expressions even in unisons, despite the fact that they are twins. Although the majority of the work takes place in a fast-paced tempo, making it feel monotone at times, I am impressed by the duo’s explosive physicality that seems inexhaustible. The recurring scene of them putting their foreheads together while holding each other’s head stirs a sense of softness in me. The imagination of their intimate breath being audible only to one another in such proximity tingles my ears.
As soon as the piece ends and audiences start to clap, the sisters embrace for a while with their eyes closed. Then, one puts her hand on the other’s visibly bulging belly and checks if the baby is OK. ‘They love each other,’ I think, and feel warmth sweeping across my chest.
A Night’s Game by Alleyne Dance was presented on 23 and 24 July 2024 at DOCK 11, as a part of the b12 festival.
