For theatre without dialogue, Compagnia Baccalà’s Pss Pss certainly creates a lot of buzz, on stage at The Cultch York Theatre.
photo: Geri Born
The award winning show stars Camilla Pessi and Simone Fassari, her and him, as they take the audience on an adventure in physical-comedy. The two performers formed Compagnia Baccalà combining careers in circus and cabaret, which both shine through in Pss Pss. Their mostly silent performance echos comedy greats like Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin and even Lucille Ball, their clown-like faces able to express so much with just a raised eyebrow, or curl of the lips. Where their facial expressions bring laughter, their physical acrobatics and gymnastics skills bring awe.
Like a circus show, Pss Pss is a series of set pieces combining all of their skills into a hilarious and breathtaking hour long performance. While their acrobatics are awe-inspiring the moments that are perhaps the most risky are incorporating the audience.
As with any audience interaction the performer hopes their instincts are sharp and they choose an able and game player. On opening night the audience members really got into the spirit of the show and the man they singled out to bring onstage perfectly fit the bill, incorporating into their balancing act with ease. Even though not part of the direct interaction, hearing the large number of children in the audience vocalize their wonder and amazement add an extra bit of joy to the experience.
Compagnia Baccalà’s Pss Pss is an hour of theatre that is sure to put a smile on your face, and a thrill in your heart.
The York Theatre plays host to Pss Pss until March 4, 2018. Visit thecultch.com for tickets and showtimes.