Charlotte Mooney and Alex Harvey, the founding duo behind Ockham's Razor, brought their unique blend of circus theatre to life in 'Collaborator', a poignant ode to their 24-year partnership. The show's gentle pace belies its intensity, weaving a narrative that explores the ebbs and flows of relationships through simple yet evocative games and physical interactions.
At its core, 'Collaborator' is an examination of the dynamic between two partners – how one person's energy can either amplify or dampen another's. The trapeze act, which takes center stage in this production, serves as a powerful metaphor for the trust, care, and attention that Mooney and Harvey bring to their relationship.
The intimacy of the performance is striking, with Mooney and Harvey hanging from a square frame, slowly lifting, curling, folding, balancing, and even pretzel-ing themselves around each other. This physical conversation is free from the pyrotechnics often associated with circus performances, instead opting for an unflinching portrayal of the ups and downs of long-term partnership.
A fleeting moment of tenderness stands out in the show – when Harvey's foot pushes against the metal while hanging beneath the bar, Mooney crouches above him, her toes mirroring his. It's a subtle yet telling detail that underscores the deep connection between these two performers. Even as they navigate comedic missteps and awkward moments, the audience is reminded of the hard work and dedication that underpins their partnership.
'Collaborator' is an engaging memento of Mooney and Harvey's beautiful relationship – one that will linger long after the show comes to a close. As they step into this final hurrah on stage, it's clear that their love story has become a powerful and poignant exploration of what it means to be human.
At its core, 'Collaborator' is an examination of the dynamic between two partners – how one person's energy can either amplify or dampen another's. The trapeze act, which takes center stage in this production, serves as a powerful metaphor for the trust, care, and attention that Mooney and Harvey bring to their relationship.
The intimacy of the performance is striking, with Mooney and Harvey hanging from a square frame, slowly lifting, curling, folding, balancing, and even pretzel-ing themselves around each other. This physical conversation is free from the pyrotechnics often associated with circus performances, instead opting for an unflinching portrayal of the ups and downs of long-term partnership.
A fleeting moment of tenderness stands out in the show – when Harvey's foot pushes against the metal while hanging beneath the bar, Mooney crouches above him, her toes mirroring his. It's a subtle yet telling detail that underscores the deep connection between these two performers. Even as they navigate comedic missteps and awkward moments, the audience is reminded of the hard work and dedication that underpins their partnership.
'Collaborator' is an engaging memento of Mooney and Harvey's beautiful relationship – one that will linger long after the show comes to a close. As they step into this final hurrah on stage, it's clear that their love story has become a powerful and poignant exploration of what it means to be human.