Quasimondo on Salvador Dalí

Bathing its audiences in rich colors, entrancing choreography and artful exhibitionism, Quasimondo Milwaukee Physical Theatre’s Giraffe on Fire is an unforgettably outré theatrical experience based on the life and works of Spanish Surrealist Salvador Dalí. His whiskers twisted into their iconic upturned position, the character of Dalí is but one of the nine versatile ensemble members who perform in this melding of dance, theater and music.

Entering the performance space, Giraffe On Fire immerses its audience immediately; a group of partially clothed figures sketch in the shadows on stage as a bewildered Frenchwoman shuffles playgoers into their seats. Anthropoid plaster sculptures pepper the acting areas along with large geometric set pieces. The cast occasionally moves these pieces, sometimes using them to recreate Dalí’s famous oil paintings on stage.

Body movement, however, is the main vehicle used to interpret the late Surrealist’s work. The production is divided into 21 distinct dance and acting pieces, each producing its own perplexing symbolism and psychedelic imageries. Memorable scenes include Dalí interacting with a flurry of anthropomorphic dancing dresses, a mesmerizing dance featuring a bicycle-riding Albert Einstein, a macabre tribute to Charlie Chaplin and a bizarre metaphor for masturbation involving Hitler. Although there is no discernable plot that threads these vignettes together, the scenes blend beautifully. The show clips along at a steady and exhilarating pace, driven by the top-rate choreography and stunning visuals.

Giraffe On Fire is a must see for all those that wish to step into Salvador Dalí’s work in a completely new and exciting way. 

Through Sunday, May 31 at Quasimondo Milwaukee Physical Theatre, Studio G, 161 W. Wisconsin Ave. For tickets, call 717-347-8274 or visit thequasimondo.com.