Sutra

I was totally blown away when I saw "Sutra" in its first run last year and whilst repeat viewing inevitably removes some of the novelty it remains a startlingly brilliant piece, balancing spectacle with intelligence. I'll keep this short since my opinions have little changed since my first viewing, but a little more praise is more than deserved for this incredible collaboration.

The simple design proves a serious winner. Anthony Gormley's boxes have nothing particularly special about them but through the ingenious hands of Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui they become the most adaptable scenery imaginable. The show is highly abstract yet it's easy to read ideas in the movement, it makes for an insightful evening without seeming pretentious or over-clever. The monks are, of course, incredible athletes but it's the stillness they bring to the work that makes the biggest impression. The small boy quickly won the audience's heart. Cherkaoui doesn't try to upstage the monks, he mostly operates in the background. His lithe figure is never the less truly remarkable and an effective contrast with the more physical kung fu.

A fascinating creation that has the depth to withstand many more viewings. A truly borderless piece that should have an effect on anyone who sees it from whatever background. A thought provoking work that has enough spice from the amazing monks to appeal on many levels. Worth catching this run if you can, hopefully it'll be back at some point in the future.