Esme Davis
A unique style of performance, a unique venue, a unique experience. I’ve certainly seen nothing quite like it before.
Nestled around the back of Summerhall is the Sauna Theatre, the talk of this year’s fringe. The venue is programmed with a range of styles and genres, from raves to spoken word. International Aufguss Masters stands apart as a genre specifically designed for the sauna setting. Aufguss is a sauna ritual that combines the heat of the sauna, the scents of essential oils, music, and choreography designed to move the scented steam around the space. This show comprised two movements, one duet and one solo, both within the practice of Aufguss and yet pleasantly contrasting in atmosphere.
The experience was ultimately relaxing and engaging. There was a wonderful cohesion between the baseline sensory experience of the sauna and the compelling storytelling and sensations conjured by the choreography. Both pieces were rich and distinct in how they used the space and exhibited the practices of the Aufguss ritual.
Additionally, the thoughtful care with which the venue was managed centred consent and comfort. The experience was undoubtedly lifted by the venue ensuring we were never rushed, never pressured, and able to interact with the sauna in whatever manner best suited us as audience.
Aufguss practice originates from Germany, and the two movements drew inspiration from an array of cultures. The main performance element is the towel waving, where the performers use towels in a similar style to fan dancing to waft scented steam around the theatre. This in itself was a mesmerising spectacle, and it was interesting to see two distinct styles of using this technique.
The first performance was a duet telling a simple story of love, loss and betrayal between a vampire and a human, the tale aided by sparing voice over. The dancing and use of the space was gorgeous, and the synchronised towel spinning was a sight to behold – the experience undoubtedly lifted by the feeling of the warm, scented air sweeping over you as the performers passed. The music for this movement was a mixed bag – shifting from dramatic classical songs which suited the tone to pop covers that seemed a little jarring.
The second performance was a solo performance, much more ritualistic and abstract. There was no story to this – it was instead a measured celebration of the steam, the heat, the communal experience we were sharing. The performer was bold and truly a master of the space – continually sharing energy with and through the audience, and crafting a more meditative experience. This was a longer segment, and so the heat got far more intense. This was balanced as the performer moved through the audience with a bundle of dripping wet leaves, shaking them over our heads, the cooler water droplets a easing contrast from the steamy heat.
It was a welcome relief to see something so different at the fringe this year. There was a special feeling to being part of this ritual experience – we were given a brief history of its background and purpose before being left to enjoy the show in peace and find our own enjoyment within it. It was a pleasure to be treated to such a masterful display in a medium that is often hidden within the limitations of its venue. The beauty, skill and relaxation of this piece of work is a spectacle, bringing a wholly new culture and atmosphere to Edinburgh.
Slow, measured and stunning, this performance meets the need and desire for a greater variety of form and cultural influence across the Fringe offering.
Recommended Drink: A steaming hot spiced cider – you can’t get enough of the steam!
You can catch International Aufguss Masters at Sauna Theatre at Summerhall from 6-31 August (not 18, 25) at 18:00 (90 mins). Tickets are available through the EdFringe Online Box Office.
Issy Cory
Isobel Jacob
Hannah Hamilton
