The path to enlightenment is fraught with perils. To achieve rebirth, one must first survive the ‘Ritual’.
Adelaide’s own Ritual Events theatre company (founded 2023) takes audiences on an immersive journey of self-discovery with the world premiere of the hauntingly beautiful ‘Ritual’. Inspired by ancient rites and ceremonies from around the world, ‘Ritual’ is an interactive experience which explores themes of desire, fear and transformation; transporting participants through a labyrinth of ethereal worlds designed to awaken the senses and challenge your beliefs.
Each world is expertly crafted to reflect the themes they explore, and each offers a new experience for the audience. From beautifully choreographed and expertly delivered dance routines, to thought-provoking monologues designed to challenge your sense of self and eerie events I cannot describe without spoiling the surprise, each experience is designed to evoke a strong emotional response from the audience.
Some worlds are beautiful in their simplicity, like the sparse, softly-lit red room where participants bear witness to an impressive battle of wills between The Serpent (Claire McDonald) and The Tempter (Jhon Bueno). While others look as though they have been plucked from the pages of a gothic horror, like the oppressively dark room where participants are asked to face their fears against a soundtrack of inhuman shrieking and blinding strobe lighting. Not for the faint of heart, this shadowy place is equal parts exciting and terrifying, and as a die-hard horror fanatic it was easily this reviewer’s favourite room.
Stunning costume design brings the otherworldly beings of ‘Ritual’ to life in fantastic detail. Like the sets, some are simple and elegant, like the blood-red robes and bejewelled masks of the acolyte guides (played by show directors and company founders Lisa De Palo and Robbie Jones). While others – such as those worn by the High Priestess (powerfully played by the imposing Maddi Turner) are so intricately detailed one could be forgiven for thinking they are truly standing in the presence of a priestess of old.
Claire McDonald embodies desire in a sultry, belly dance-inspired ensemble, the many chains dangling from her hips and arms creating a subtle musical soundtrack powered by the alluring movements of her body. Clad entirely in a black costume seemingly inspired by Victorian era mourning wear, Ashleigh Van der Walt delivers an eerie performance as The Mystic, who guides audiences through the shadows of fear. While Mickayla Wearden is terrifying as The Wraith, a frightening creature whose tortured screams will haunt you long after the performance ends.
Due to the nature of the show and its themes, ‘Ritual’ is restricted to those 18 years and over and audiences are warned about possible mental health triggers before entering the venue. Those who do embark on this journey will not be disappointed, and may even be inspired by the lessons they learn within.
★★★★★