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Le Cyc transcends traditional entertainment

Innovative show takes final bow, for now, at Arts Project Sunday
November 25, 2009
By Mark Filipowich

4.5/5 Stars

For most artists, picking one medium to hone their skills is a big part of the battle. The makers of Le Cyc set themselves apart by not only using several art forms, but also by exhibiting exceptional skill in all of them.

The show is a mixture of surrealist painting, dystopian narrative, haunting rock opera and political commentary — a London audience experienced this first-hand during Le Cyc’s final performance for some time at the Arts Project Sunday night.

The story takes place in a town called Le Cyc, where the citizens must power everything by peddling bicycles. The plot follows Mis de Berm, the town’s corrupt leader, and Jean-Paul and his sister-in-law Sophie, two of the oppressed citizens who are prompted to rise up against their government.

The story is similar to other dystopian fantasies such as George Orwell’s 1984 or the graphic novel turned film V For Vendetta, but its absurdist, otherworldly background gives it a unique flavour.

Much credit is due to David Willekes, whose simultaneously cartoon-like and sinister artwork brings the world of Le Cyc to life. The jagged, masculine faces and the exaggerated moustaches give a real sense of personality to the characters. The paintings of faces shaded and textured with coffee and red wine stains are unlike anything seen before.

The unique illustrations are accompanied by fitting music. The 11-piece rock orchestra moves seamlessly between songs of triumph, remorse, hope and defeat.

The majority of the show is narrated musically. The writing is solid, and the music — even outside the performance — would make a terrific concept album.

Unfortunately, London was the last stop on Le Cyc’s tour, as the creators have decided to take some time off to make a similar production for Toronto’s Images Festival in April. That means it could be a long time before audiences have the opportunity to see the production of Le Cyc again.

Le Cyc has enough versatility to be a successful theatrical or filmed piece, album or art exhibit. The balance it strikes between different media is what makes it exceptional.

The show shatters convention — it’s a form of entertainment so different it should be seen simply because it’s refreshing and new. Le Cyc is a delightful production that adventures successfully beyond the constraints of traditional media.

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