TIPPING POINT / XL

Tipping Point is a breathtaking balancing act in which six performers confront a large, barely controllable hemispherical object.

The object resembles a fragment of a shipwreck or a piece of space debris. As the performers climb it, the object tilts, and they must immediately react to stay balanced. This instability intensifies both their vulnerability and their dependence on each other; every movement affects the object and the other performers.

The performers search for balance - both of the object and in their relationships with one another - but discover they are mercilessly bumping against the limits of their individual freedoms. Only by surrendering to the laws of gravity and each other can they manipulate the object and remain upright. Only through collaboration can they briefly achieve perfect balance and control.

Tipping Point is a challenging performance about dependency, shifting power dynamics, and uncontrollable elements. With a unique, powerful language at the intersection of dance and acrobatics, full of risks, Panama Pictures keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

The movements are accompanied, propelled, amplified, or countered by a specially composed musical score that is at times larger than life but also, at other moments, highlights emptiness and makes the intimacy of the performers palpable.

“We live in unstable times, and it is becoming increasingly clear how globally interconnected we are: every decision has an impact, and sometimes the consequences of our actions (or lack thereof) are felt on the other side of the world. Tipping Point questions our individual freedom and collective responsibility.” – Pia Meuthen