Fringe Review

refraction

Abby Davis

“Refraction” comes together as a collage of the present and the dream world, what is and what might be or has been, and that which is within the humanness of the body that can be seen and that which can only be felt. A singular definition of the word refraction states that it is “the bending of light, sound, or water waves as they pass from one medium to another.” Aspen Nell, in collaboration with Addinson Acheson, creates a work that is an experience of layers, mediums that cross over, bend and intertwine to create something that can be felt but not made sense of in any “aha!” type moment. Through this 45 minute performance and following 15 minute collaborative conversation you will have moments of being drawn into the world that is being created through dance, spoken word, music, light and shadow, as well as to observe as someone would a painting in a museum.

Aspen moves with a uniqueness that comes from a pull from something ethereal and dreamlike. The steadiness of her voice is contriving, yet matter of fact, always asking a question while answering. She is talent and intellect that evolve throughout the performance to suggest a lifetime has led her to this moment. Addison creates layer of song and contrast that is grounding and reflective. You can decide for yourself is Addison’s presence within the work is that of another human or that of a bend of light, refracted, perhaps as a reflection of Aspen herself.

Aspen asks that during the performance you notice your own agency and moments of choice as you decide where to be within this work. Multi-layered, true and defining “Refraction” will move you forward, stand you still in the present, and make you question your own way of perceiving and noticing. A “must-see” for Fringe goers whether you want to feel something, think something or just be without questions. No chance that your experience will be the same as the person’s next to you.