The Future Memory Heartbreak Junction, Diptych

Reviewed by Paula Citron

The Future Memory Heartbreak Junction, Diptych
DanceWorks/blackandblue dance projects
Choreographed by Sasha Ivanochko
Performed by Sasha Ivanochko and Brendan Wyatt
Enwave Theatre, Nov. 4 to 6, 2010

Not every good choreographer creates a good show every time. Sasha Ivanochko’s The Future Memory Heartbreak Junction, Diptych is a work of strong moments, rather than a strong piece.

Ivanochko’s premise is intriguing. Two performers play two performers , a torch singer and a crooner, describing their troubled relationship. So there are wheels within wheels in this solo and duet, the latter with the always in-demand Brendan Wyatt.

Ivanochko and Wyatt are charismatic dance artists. Unfortunately, this diptych is self-indulgent in timing. Ivanochko draws events out too long, particularly in her solo.

She has tried to show the many faceted relationship, especially the pain factor, and while she certainly does succeed in this, there is too much lingering over details.

On the other hand, the strong moments are very strong. For example, when Ivanochko is lying on her stomach, arms and legs awkwardly raised, as she howls into the microphone.

There is just not enough sharp material to sustain the full-length work.