Common Dissonance

In a 21st Century world where it is common to believe in both spirituality and science – how can we navigate thecomplex dialogues that consume contemporary culture?

Common Dissonance is a contemporary circus work that creates a physical dialogue between different voices of reason.

The two performers, one First Nations Australian, the other not, are embodiments of traditional and contemporary reasoning, and broadly represent pre- and post-colonial people.

By engaging with the complexities between indigenous cultural understanding of society and contemporary scientific reasoning, this work inspires audiences to focus on a balance between, rather than the resolution, of conflict. The future of reconciliation in Australia won’t come from overcoming our differences, but rather embracing and understanding their value.

For thousands of years in Australia, understanding of the world came from dreamtime stories, song lines, and oral histories, all of which are still relevant to many Australians. Our environment is riddled with the hypocrisies of a culturally diverse past lingering in the wake of a globalized present.

Common Dissonance presents this internal conflict as physical interactions between two performers, speaking not only to the inherent conflict between modes of reasoning, but also the moments of unity, the examples of cultural exchange, and hopes to seek resolution and balance into the future.

The abstract framing of the work allows audiences to place themselves within the work, at times identifying with one performer, or the other, or as both at once. This utilises empathy to foster a deeper understanding of the themes, and of the necessary similarities and differences between Blak and white Australia that help build a more holistic and accepting society.

Contradiction and correspondence, harmony and dissonance: all play out as we seek truth, knowledge, and understanding in our lives.