Traces

The threat of a sudden and inescapable disaster that could wipe out all mankind, is a theme that has recurred over the years in various forms, from John Wyndham’s The Day of the Triffids to the more recent Hollywood blockbuster, 2012. But now the end-of-the-world theme has made the leap into physical theatre, as Traces, a show that follows the last moments of people facing certain death, returns to Edinburgh as part of its first UK tour.

Set in a homemade bunker, Traces follows the cast of five characters, four men and one woman as they hide from an unknown and impending disaster that awaits them just outside their shelter. With time against them, their only escape is through physical movement, acrobatics and circus skills, as they each reveal an insight into their own lives in an attempt to leave some kind of trace of their collective existence behind. The second production from Montreal based company, Les 7 Doigts de la Main (The 7 fingers), Traces has toured around the world since its successful run at the 2007 Edinburgh Festival.

Three years later, a new cast has taken over from the original performers, but the show’s premise and energy remain as fresh as ever, with each new artist seamlessly adapting to the production. Co-directed by Shana Carroll and Gypsy Snider, the show is a testament to the continuing allure of the circus, and to the very human trait of perseverance. As the threat of catastrophe looms ever closer, each artist performs enviable acrobatic feats and spectacular disciplines with enthusiasm and humour, creating an undeniable celebration of humanity, and the extraordinary abilities of the human body.

The inescapable wonder of Traces lies in its capacity to inspire and make the movement on stage simple, and above all, accessible to anyone who would dare to give it a try. But with all the awesome feats on display, the only complaint is that the hours went by too quickly, and the show seemed to end far too quickly.