TANTRUM for 6 review

In Harrison Ritchie-Jones' TANTRUM for 6, six babies are born from a thunderstorm, with a natural ability to dance together. They begin to explore themselves, each other and this brand-new world leading to enthralling contemporary choreography and performances that investigate what it means to be human, particularly when it all gets a little bit too overwhelming.



The ensemble (Anika Deruyter, Rebecca Jensen, Georgia Rudd, Oliver Savariego, Michaela Tancheff, and Ritchie-Jones) is completely in sync with each other with their movements built on skill and trust. When they move their body a certain way or drop to the floor, everyone else is in the right spot to catch, push or rotate them into the next arrangement of this mesmerising chain reaction. As these babies become more familiar with their new forms and how they function, the choreography too, becomes more complex as they rely on one another even further with some striking pair work.



The opening moments are incredibly powerful as these beings are brought forth with projections of a storm appearing on screen with loud and unnerving thunder sounds filling the room. The images of them travelling down a water slide as they are birthed are delightfully illustrated. While the finale isn't quite as effective, ending on a slight anti-climax, Ritchie-Jones' look at life and connection is a clever and stimulating concept. There's wonderful play with silences where you can hear the performers take their breaths and a few choice props - such as an iPhone and talcum powder - enhance and deepen all that is being discussed.

Andrew Treloar's costume design builds this idea of togetherness with the six born in diapers, socks, crocs and protective headgear. Treloar also allows for them to be seen as individuals with distinct personalities as each dancer is provided with their own colour of these pieces of clothing. As they age, their outfits change, becoming more detailed and particular to them.



TANTRUM for 6 is a commendable achievement by Ritchie-Jones and the entire team in how they combine dance and storytelling. It is a brilliant creation that offers a refreshing and novel approach in examining connection, community, and humanity.

Show Details

Venue: Northcote Town Hall, 189 High St, Northcote
Season: Until 22 February | Wed - Fri 7.30pm, Sat 2pm and 7.30pm
Duration: 50 mins
Tickets: $38 Full | $33 Conc 
Bookings: Darebin Arts

Image credit: Darren Gill