Review (Georgia Haupt): Exocytosis

Review and photographs by Georgia Haupt

Presented by Solstice Collective | Choreographed by Esmée Henry | Performed by Grace Campbell, Clare Dark, Kelsey Dell, Chloe Järvelä, Meg Blackburn, Noah Hockey, Eva Cattarin Mattioli, Lillian Wright, Mia Williams and Emily Underwood

Step into the brain and watch dopamine dance before your eyes. Exocytosis transforms complex neuroscience into mesmerising movement, following the journey of our most famous neurotransmitter through contemporary dance. Exocytosis describes the process of vesicles fusing with the plasma membrane and releasing their contents to the outside of the cell, and here, that biological precision becomes breathtaking choreography. The expansive warehouse setting of The Paint Factory is effective in inviting the audience into the narrative’s chasm, creating an immersive space for this extraordinary fusion of science and art.

It’s rare to encounter such a large ensemble in Brisbane’s independent arts scene, making this collection of ten talented contemporary dancers a genuine treat. Choreographer Esmée Henry presents a masterful balance of group work, solos, and duets that transport audiences beyond the warehouse walls and into the very neurons of our minds.

The movements derive directly from factual biological processes, creating an extraordinary fusion of science and art. The dancers’ speed, precision, and fluidity work to remarkable effect, their collective energy essentially filling the room and transforming the setting. This high standard of contemporary dance is surely an asset to this year’s Anywhere Festival.

This ambitious work succeeds in making the invisible visible, transforming the microscopic drama happening inside our heads into full-bodied expression. Exocytosis doesn’t just tell you about the brain’s chemistry, it lets you witness it, feel it, and experience the very mechanisms that create joy.

Tonight [August 3rd] is your last chance to catch this work, tickets are limited!