Silent disco technology meets ancient legend in this fascinating show by Awful Shoes Collective.
Bai Suzhen, the central character in the Legend of the White Snake, chooses to live among mortals, seeking love and meaning. She falls for the human Xu Xian and defies heaven’s judgement to be with him, but after he passes away the story ends; Invisible Space imagines what happens several centuries later, as Bai continues to seek out connection in the mortal realm.
Jiayi Li portrays the legendary snake deity Bai in this one-woman performance. Blending experimental theatre and a soundscape delivered to the audience via wireless headphones, we get an intimate look at Bai’s observations and desires. Everything from the pattering rain and flowing rivers to café chatter in many languages fills our ears; the water-effect lighting also adds to the ethereal atmosphere. Props are minimal- iridescent fabrics, a paper parasol, popcorn and roses for a date- but it’s Jiayi who steals the show, talking about human flaws and uptight lovers who fold their underwear.
The headphones worked perfectly for the show, though there was inevitably some sound leaking in from shows next door. Jiayi held our attention, however, with an emotional performance.
Invisible Space is an interesting theatrical experiment that presents a centuries-old story in an accessible modern format.
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