As eerie music fills the Manoel Theatre, two skeletal figures, barely clothed, stand inside a, minimalist, square of light. The dancers begin with almost imperceptible sways, their micro-movements meticulously controlled. Yet every reach toward the center feels like striking an electric fence. Their bodies recoil violently in staccato jolts, testing the boundary between light and darkness.

The score intensifies and a sudden blackout leaves  the audience suspended.  Then a hollow sound, similar to a ping-pong ball dropping, breaks the silence.

The square reappears to reveal a figure covered in suction cups, an ode to parasites. As the sound slips into a hypnotic hum, a primitive tenderness takes over. The performers move like living marble sculptures, culminating in a slow, silent waltz.

Despite its heavy themes of insecurity and paranoia, the piece remains intensely mesmerising, leaving us thoroughly intrigued by its dark, delicate spell.

The writers and critics platform held at Dance Festival Malta organized by Festivals Malta is supported by Arts Council Malta, Festivals Malta.

Photos: Elisa Von Brockdorff