Presented by award-winning choreographer Lewis Major, in collaboration with Hartstone-Kitney Productions, “Spaces Between Us” and “Epilogue” are two different yet immensely compelling dance works. Originally performed live at the Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre in late 2021, viewers are invited to marvel at the impeccable choreography and consider what these performances mean outside of the show.

Bathed in darkness, “Spaces Between Us” plays with light and emotion, featuring two dancers performing in an almost monochromatic setting. Breaking away from and reconnecting with one another, the performers explore the concept of physical touch and the intimacy that extends from it. The choreography speaks to a yearning for connection and the feeling of not being alone, something everyone can relate to. I found that I was losing myself as the performance went on, questioning what it means to be truly connected to another person, not only through a screen but face-to-face. More than anything, it made me think of the beauty of togetherness and the amazing potential humanity is capable of if only we work together. With what the world has been through in recent years, we cannot afford to segregate and lose what makes us truly human; our connection with each other.

“Epilogue” provides a stark comparison to the first performance, featuring a lone dancer covered in powder. Choreographed to Claude Debussy’s Claire De Lune and Dane Yates’ original compositions, the performer dances gracefully across the stage, sending the powder swirling through the air like smoke. An elegant and gripping interpretation of life and struggle, the music shifts in and out to allow the audience to admire the performer’s agile movements. As the shadows of his body danced with him, the performer draws close attention to the message behind the piece. Especially after the first performance, I found myself seeing the spins, arcs, and leaps as representative of life, in that the cycle to which we bind ourselves is often a result of our position in society. Although some audiences may find parts of the performance jarring, it is truly a beautiful act to witness.

Though I enjoyed both performances, I took a substantially greater liking towards “Spaces Between Us” over “Epilogue”. Lewis Major certainly gives viewers a lot to chew on and provides opportunities for greater thinking through his graceful and brilliant choreography. The show leaves viewers seeing themselves on the black screen of their monitors at the end of the performances, allowing for true contemplation on the powerful meanings behind the dance works. With the convenience of watching this show on-demand via BlackBoxLive, I would certainly recommend it to those willing to question the world around them.