Pivot - Circus Scorpius

Written and directed by Kelsey Aicher, the premise and concept of “Pivot” is that the process of creation – whether writing, acting, performing, directing – never quite goes as planned when executed in reality. The “pivot” that occurs is shifting and adapting to the obstacles that lie before you with the help of your peers, your performers, and the tools and knowledge you have. This is demonstrated in the show in two ways: monologues written about a specific subject (performed by a prerecorded Aicher), followed by a subsequent performance piece by the various members of Circus Scorpius relating to the topic.

A diatribe about juggling different responsibilities is followed by three jugglers (Dan Boone, Gretchen Engle, and Madi Nespel) working to pass off objects to one another. A metaphor about being tangled up with making the right decision leads to a beautiful piece of aerial silk work as aerialists wrap themselves up in knots with every movement. Seeking support from your peers becomes an impressive feat of trust falls and physical strength by Dan Boone, Kate Vilain, Katie Billups, Lindsay Hays, Warren Hall, Megan Finster, and Neil Likens.

The drawback is these allegories and metaphors become too on the nose as the show progresses; it is literally ten instances of Tell and Show. The monologues begin to turn redundant, serving more to highlight Aicher’s difficulties creating, while diminishing the efforts and voices of the brilliant performers we see on stage. Some interludes felt isolated and never fully immersed in the pieces. The performers seem to be treated as her surrogates, rather than collaborators. The comparisons don’t seem as apt between the mental struggle versus the physical spectacle. The music composed by Kristopher Estes-Brown deserves credit for keeping the pacing and mood of the show throughout.

The show begins with a quote by Emerson about the importance of the journey as is the destination, and that is important to note with any endeavor, whether we succeed or fail. But, considering this was a show involving acrobatics and aerialists, the phrase “sticking the landing” feels more relevant to the situation. Ultimately “Pivot” succeeds due to the talent of its young performers.