Hip hop dance, spoken word, brotherhood, gaming, AI, and, most importantly, storytelling are all wrapped into Fray, a boundary-pushing production exploring the limitless world of technology. An innovative show by the award-winning CandyBomber Productions and hip-hop dance theatre pioneer Jonzi D, Fray is presented in an exclusive two-night run at London’s Sadler’s Wells, Lilian Baylis Studio.
The original story revolves around two brothers, Tulio and Ziya, who share a passion for hip-hop dance and gaming, and whose bond is tested when Ziya is enticed into a virtual game world by a captivating AI avatar named Lucious. This narrative delves not only into the blurred lines between reality and virtuality but also the complexities of human relationships. While the plot may be straightforward and not necessarily groundbreaking, Fray pulsates with authentic emotions and a relentless quest for meaning.
The cast’s tangible passion for dance is the strongest asset of this imperfect yet unique and genuine show. The ensemble routines, including the incredibly synchronized floor performances and solo moments, unassumingly reflect the characters’ aspirations. These performances demonstrate the dancers’ unpretending joy and direct investment in the story. Their talent is further highlighted by the dynamic and effective choreography of Ola Papiór, who has worked with the likes of Rihanna, Alexandra Burke, X Factor, and Netflix.
Fray aspires to be immersive, though the visual projections fall short of stunning and the soundtrack, rather than being closely tied with the dance, constitutes an almost unnoticeable background at best. However, the cast’s energy and dedication make Fray worth seeing, offering an exploration of different realities that prompts the audience to ask more questions afterward.
The production’s raw authenticity, coupled with the cast’s exceptional talent, ensures that Fray leaves a lasting impression. Despite its imperfections, the show stands out for its sincere approach to storytelling and its celebration of human connections in the digital age.
