It's Just You and Me

I opted to see this show as a way to balance out the improve, comedy and drama of other festival shows. I went into it thinking that it would be a nice change of pace and something we don't often choose when selecting our fringe shows. And as I watched I realized just how lucky I was that I made the decision to be in that room and to take it all in. I was captivated for the entire show and didn't want it to end. I felt a range of emotions and allowed the tears to fall. It is an experience I took with me after the show was done and I cannot recommend this group enough.

When emotions become too overwhelming for words, you express them through dance.

It’s Just You and Me told a vulnerable story of loss and pain and reinvention of identity despite the obstacles. It seemed like each dancer had their own unique story to tell, and their performances were raw and intimate; watching the show felt like discovering what it means to truly be human.

The dancers’ commitment to the piece was clear with fluid and powerful movements void of hesitation. Each dancer established a formidable physical presence on the stage, and their precise expressions and powerful formations told an insightful story. The dance was mesmerizing and visceral, making it near impossible to peel your eyes away from it.

A fierce journey of pain and the pathway to self-acceptance and growth was further developed by the design and color choices of costumes and lights, which often created a deep emotional setting for each dance.

The strong bond the dancers had was also clear in their interactions with each other. They moved in perfect unison, trusting and speaking to each other without words; they seemed like one singular organism.

Breathtaking duets, solos, and group choreography brought tears to our eyes as each emotional shift and struggle throughout the dance was a recognizable feeling for every person in that room. The choreography corresponded perfectly with the music as each swell and crescendo brought more intensity to the movements as the dancers formed one cohesive image.

It was both exhausting and exhilarating to watch, and felt like a rediscovery of my own identity.

The show was an absolute must watch, and it was a privilege to see such beauty and passion in a world where pain and sorrow often fill most of our moments.

Independent dance shows are getting harder and harder to find in arts festivals in Edmonton, let alone large ensemble dance shows. I went to a dance show a couple of years ago and the host joked that the only people who see indie dance shows are dancers themselves or loved ones of the performers. This held pretty true for this show, which is a damn shame because it was awesome.

Upon walking in, the first thing I noticed was that the amount of stage fog/smoke was UNBELIEVABLE. I've never seen and smelled so much of it in a theatre before, and I'm not sensitive to it at all so that's saying something. I felt like I was being hotboxed by an overzealous vaper. If you have any pulmonary concerns at all, or are sensitive to scents, please prepare a mask.

I also wish that there was a bit more coherence in the show, whether by general theme, music choices, etc. This felt like a showcase or anthology show, which wasn't as effective as their previous Fringe show that was held together by a single musical artist.

Regardless, I was glad to see that they were on a much bigger stage this year (thanks Roxy Theatre), as their last Fringe show was in the smaller of the La Cite venues and I genuinely feared that they may fall of the stage or hit the ceiling. I was also happy to see a greater diversity of dancers in the company this year!

The choreo was emotive and beautiful and impressive as always, and the dancing doubly so. I was surprised to see that they explained the meaning of each performance in the program. Frankly, I think that was completely unnecessary, as the themes and intent were pretty clear in the dancing itself. Artists, trust your audience!!

Overall, I don't think Viva could disappoint me with any Fringe offering. Can't wait to see what they do next.

A gorgeous display of art and athleticism combined, It’s Just You And Me and the talented dancers behind it captivated the audience and put such powerful emotion behind every movement. Each act takes on such a different theme and meaning that the range of these dancers is something to be celebrated. Even those who struggle to understand contemporary art like myself will find this piece beautiful and impactful, and will be amazed by the strength and beauty of these incredible artists.

We were so excited to see the Viva Dance Company return to the Edmonton Fringe this year. We have made it to all of their past shows because of the troupe’s originality, beauty and energy they bring to their dance. Every year there has been something new; but this year’s performance stepped up everything. So well done. I encourage everyone who enjoys dance and well-mixed sound tracks to check them out at the Roxy Theatre. We bought 2 more tickets for tomorrow on the way out of today’s show. I especially have to see again Fear, the Optimist, and the closer Ara, a number which the audience rewarded the dancers with a standing ovation.