This dance theatre tells a compelling and sometimes painful story of 3 siblings who were separated by war. The way in which no words were spoken but the depth of story telling is enhanced through movement is beautiful and engaging at the same time.
What to Expect at Message in a Bottle
Like with all theatre plan to get there at least 30 minutes before show time. Add a little more time if you’re looking for parking. There are concessions including a signature cocktail called Roxanne. The cocktail is heavy on mint. If you’re not into it I would ask them to only do a splash of the mint like I did. The show is about 1 hour and 50 minutes long with a 20 minute intermission. Although there are no words I would recommend this for older kids. There are older themes presented throughout.
The Uncasted Star of Message in a Bottle
One of the biggest elements outside of dance and movement is the theatrics. The cinematography definitely plays a huge part in the show. The use of colors and more brings emotion to life. Reds, blacks and more are so weighted and necessary to give and bring life into this production. Some of the scenes are jar dropping in the way they challenge your heart to receive the message.
The Music is Top Tier
Sting is one of the most decorated musicians. His 17 Grammy Awards speak volumes. Having his music weaved throughout the production was melodic with its timing, purpose, abs messaging. If you are a Sting fan or not you will leave with a greater appreciation for the music.
Dance as a form of Artistry
We all know that dance plays a huge part of the Arts. It’s weaved into almost every production ever made. It’s not an easy task to use your body to captivate and keep the audience members’ attention. Kate Prince is a genius in the use of motion. Her choreography transposed us all to the stage as if we were taking the steps with the dancers/actors themselves. Each actor and actress/dancer nailed their parts individually and collectively. The wave of bodies in motion reminds you just how amazing our body really is.
Messaging in Message in a Bottle
It’s a mix of love, pain, humanity, and more. Everything that we are as people are challenged daily. On stage as the siblings come together to celebrate life such as marriage and more you get the sense of how close they are to one another. This plays such a large part in the separation.
Free to Live?!
As they are separated and trying to survive their love never died. However the challenge to begin again like life is for many isn’t always as easy as it looks. After that many years (no way of knowing how long) walking out to happiness, newness doesn’t matter if you’re not able to move forward. Life imitates art as I kept thinking of people in general struggling to do the same.
Dancing is Freedom
Whenever I go to shows especially musicals I pay close attention to the faces of the performers. You can always tell who really feel what they are doing. On this particular production you feel the sense of freedom, joy, and more from their steps. It’s a mind blowing experience to see it in person. It’s transformative at the same time. So for some they will take it in, sway, cry, laugh, and more. Whatever your response or lack of response will be determined by you!
A special thank you to Message in a Bottle staff and Ensemble Arts Philly for having me. Also for the gift that was delivered to me to enjoy. Make sure you grab some swag before leaving and as always support the arts. The show ends this Sunday May 19th and tickets are available.
