FOUR STARS

 

The phrase ‘and now for something completely different’ could have been invented for the audio installation Everyday Moments by Hofesh Shechter at the Burton Taylor Theatre. It’s a unique experience — instead of being a passive member of an audience you become a participant in the event. In fact you are the only participant! It’s a piece designed for one person at a time, it lasts 15 minutes and it takes place in the pitch black.

You are led into the Burton Taylor’s performance space, which is devoid of seats, sets and the usual theatre paraphernalia. It is enclosed by blackout curtains with a solitary light pull-cord hanging in the middle of the space. I gave it a quick tug and was plunged into darkness — so I quickly pulled it again. Having got my bearings and been equipped with an iPod and headphones I was ready to put out the light and submerge myself in the soundscape. I don’t want to give any spoilers about what unfolds as you are listening to the recording because I think a great part of my enjoyment was in not knowing what to expect from it.

There are no instructions as to what you are supposed to do in reaction to the recording — there are no rules, no expectations, no witnesses. It’s just you and the narration, sounds and music.

Everyone does their own individual thing in reaction to the experience. You can dance, jump, roll around — or not do any of that at all.

At one point I burst out laughing because for some inexplicable reason I felt incredibly happy — in other sections I felt moved with quite different emotions. But, all in all, it was a powerful experience. When I came out I saw there were some couples and groups getting ready to go in one at a time and I thought how nice this would be — comparing notes and ideas afterwards about your individual experiences in the installation. Next time I think I will bring a chum along too!

 

Everyday Moments
Burton Taylor Studio Theatre, Oxford
Until Saturday
Box office: 01865 305305 oxfordplayhouse.com