National Arts Festival: Fringe roundup, day 7
The Critter’s Fringe pick from the day is the virtuosity of Saxophonist Josie McClure and pianist Seung-Ree Lee in That’s the Way it Goes.
Isibane: A deeply moving musical performance by a couple that beautifully intertwines storytelling and song. The lead vocalist has a stunning, expressive voice, and the performance is at its strongest in its moments of vulnerability, inviting the audience into their personal journey with honesty and grace.
What resonated most was witnessing two people choosing to grieve together and transform that grief into music. Their willingness to use music as a medium for healing gives the production an authenticity that is both intimate and deeply human.
One show left on 3 July at 2pm
Remnant: A dance performance about the death of a father. The tableau at the end, with a chair, was pleasing, but much of the movement was obscure. The three hanging sheets were under utilised as devices and largely served to hide the two performers who, perplexingly, often chose to perform behind them. Perhaps they intended to be backlit and throw their shadows upon them, which could be interesting, but that did not happen.
Showing on 3 July at 2pm; 4 July at 12pm and 6.30pm
A Sending: Eish! Guys, what was going on here? Downstage centre is a mound with mushrooms on it, looking like something from a faerie terrarium. The lights go down and it emits a red light. Is it a heart? Possibly. But, mushrooms? Then: three performers. A man, who is dark and cynical, a woman who is hopeful and remembers butterflies, and what seems to be a child clutching a teddy bear of sorts. Projections and recorded narration seem to indicate they’re in a world that has suffered ecological collapse. But how does this tally with the mushrooms, and leaves attached to three boxes which make up the rest of the set? And why a recorded narration when the characters could have done it? And the a whole bunch of nonsensical choreography and tossing the teddy-bear around. Nope.
If you want to see if you can figure it out, it’s showing on 3 July at 7pm, and 4 July at 10am and 7pm.
Dreamscape: A beautifully written production with a powerful storyline, brought to life by an outstanding duo. The lead actress is exceptionally talented, delivering impressive acting, singing, and dancing performances with remarkable confidence. The show is well rehearsed, filled with humour, and features engaging choreography. A thoroughly enjoyable production.
See it on 3 July at 8pm, and 4 July at 10am.
The Age of Knowing: A simple, minimal one-man performance that is nevertheless effective and powerful. Ankel Sanza demonstrates strong guitar skills, confidently accompanying his vocals with accomplished musicianship. His experience as a performer is evident throughout, resulting in a heartfelt and warm performance. Sanza successfully engages the audience by inviting them into his world, sharing the stories and inspirations behind his original compositions. These moments of narration create a personal connection and allow the audience to appreciate the songs on a deeper level.
Last show on 3 July at 12pm.
That’s The Way It Goes: A polished, well-rehearsed, and highly engaging performance. Saxophonist Josie McClure and pianist Seung-Ree Lee deliver an energetic and vibrant classical programme that is thoughtfully fused with contemporary works, bringing the music of emerging and lesser-known composers to the stage alongside the classical tradition.
The musicianship on display is of an exceptionally high standard. Lee performs with remarkable technical assurance, providing more than accompaniment. Rather than remaining in a supporting role, the piano engages in a genuine musical dialogue with the saxophone, creating the sense of a true duet built on balance, communication, and shared artistry.
McClure demonstrates outstanding command of the instrument. Her breath control is remarkable, allowing her to sustain demanding passages and maintain the fast tempos of the programme with confidence. The execution of technically challenging runs is impressive, while her musical expression ensures that each work communicates its character and meaning beyond technical brilliance alone.
The pair, known as Novo Duo, clearly strive for the precision expected within the classical music tradition, where every attack, phrase, articulation, and musical gesture matters. This commitment to excellence is evident throughout the performance.
The spoken introductions before each piece are well handled, providing valuable background to the repertoire and inviting the audience into the programme. These narrations strengthen the connection between performers and audience, making the concert more accessible without compromising its formal classical setting.
This is a programme that invites the audience to relax, breathe, and immerse themselves in beautiful classical melodies, rich harmonies, and exceptional musicianship.
See the show on 3 July at 10am and 4 July at 6.30pm.