Tarot: “the symbolic language of the soul”. A means of attaining unique insights and introspections that can reveal secrets about ourselves and our place within the universe. A stamp of the imagination and the inner self. It is with tarot that Fawn Phoenix Productions draws inspiration for their latest creation: an occult-themed parade of nightlife, burlesque and circus heavyweights to an original and spookily indulgent stage show.
The Ark, sitting proudly above the Arkaba Hotel, offers a wonderful 360 view of the performance. Rising Phoenix leans into the shadowy occult aesthetic with moody blue-violet illuminations and candlelight. A tarot reader tucked away in a shadowy corner is a nice touch to the overall vibe. A huge aerial rig erected in the centre of the downstage area promises a smorgasbord of circus talent.
Sebasatin Wolf performs a standout burlesque number.
The lineup is packed to the nines, with every performer bringing a unique spin to the themes of Tarot. From acts drawing inspiration from the theme of justice, change and duality to embodying the idea of reincarnation, the entire show is full of magnetic and electrifying personalities. Molly Morphine our glittery hostess as iridescent as the glittery disco ball-esque dress she adorns. Aerial artists Charli Circus, Jessica Rose, Fawn Phoenix, Sarah Zaglia and Sarah Cassandra (many champions on the local aerial circuit) spoil us with a collection of acts involving handstands, contortion, lyra, straps and hammock. Sebastian Wolf brings a standout burlesque number, a twerking, golden-clad Adonis in giant stilettos. Arielle Diamonde and partner act Duo Ukiyo stun with their respective routines with fine floorwork and fire twirling skills. And oh my lord: Souls Tease on the Flying Pole is stunning beyond words, worthy of his Cirque Du Soleil pedigree!
With the debut of a new show and new lineup, some teething problems are to be expected, and a few tweaks would certainly help the overall production. There was an issue with “framing” at various stages of the show. Often apparatuses would be left hanging in the centre of the rig or tied off to the side. By itself, the aerial rig in the centre makes a wonderful centrepiece, but it does limit visibility when the performers on the centre stage behind it are blocked by the equipment. Sound mixing at times also felt a little inconsistent, with some songs having noticeably louder pitch or more reverb.
Nonetheless, the cast's power and the venue's charm keeps the entertainment flowing and the immersion strong. The Ark is every bit as glitzy as the acts themselves, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a cast more fun and enticing as this bunch. One must commend the lighting designer; the bursts of red, gold and blue for every new act embellishes each beat drop and fills the floor with moody ambience.
At its heart, tarot is about expressing our innermost desires and articulating the unconscious. Through the medium of performance art, the creative Phoenix masterminds have found wonderful inspiration in the mystic and mysterious history tarot has coalesced for many generations.
Darkly lush and wickedly sexy. Tarot: Arcana will be sure to put a spell on you.
**** FOUR STARS
Tarot: Arcana has one show left for its season. It is being performed on Monday, March 10th at The Arkaba Hotel.
Reviewed by Justine Hall
**Please note: Shane Berketa (of Seedoeatreview is a co-producer on this show)**