Anicca

Anicca is one of the three essential doctrines, which marks the existence of Buddhism. The doctrine sees life as temporary and destructible.  Nothing lasts and everything decays.

Anicca performed by Mattias Schack-Arnott and Eugene Ughetti is a musically percussive journey like no other. They touch on ideas from Buddhism, which shines through in the performance.

The performance features percussive pieces on a large turntable looking item. Made from an array of bamboo sticks, pebbles, shells, felt and other tactile items which are glued on to a flat round surface and with the use of a motor from an electric pottery wheel. This unique instrument was designed and created by Shack-Arnott and engineer Richard Allen. The instrument has no name.

The percussive music throughout the performance changes in tempo and dynamics. This keeps the audience on their toes, as each new sound is unexpected. Paired with spectacular lighting effects to compliment each sound, Shack-Arnott and Ughetti take the audience on an amazing adventure.

Feeding from the Buddhist and Hindu ideology, the performance showcases an environment that is ever changing with music fading in and out or suddenly changing. This ties back into the idea that everything is temporary and destructible.

The pair are fluid in movement and don’t miss a beat, looking as if the movement between them is just as much part of the show as the sounds they are producing. The two use cymbals and bamboo sticks to interact with the turning wheel with little acknowledgement of each other.

This show was like no other musical performance. It showcased a skill set not many would acquire. Shack-Arnott’s ideas are ever flowing and it is a wonder what his next show will focus on.

Annica had played at the Arts House in North Melbourne from Wednesday November 2 until Sunday November 6.