Motionhouse in Hidden

Birmingham Hippodrome
October 11, 2025

Following its initial tour, Hidden opened its second season at the Birmingham Hippodrome, where Motionhouse is an associate company. The two-act, full-length work impressed greatly at its premiere back in February but on the much larger Hippodrome stage it looked even better. The extra space allowed the piece to breathe and the dancers to give full rein to the incredibly athletic movement. A few changes to the choreography made as the work evolved and the dancers became more comfortable with it have also added interest.

Much of it is the Motionhouse that is known and loved. But some of Hidden is very different, especially the opening scenes which reflect on the modern-day world full of people rushing about their business, oblivious to what is happening around them. One dancer is seen in a city street. As if caught in some sort of personal maelstrom, he tosses and turns, reaches out. People continually pass by yet appear to not even see him. What is it they say about the loneliest people are found in cities where they are surrounded by others.

A loving couple are visited in their smart, modern apartment. A woman in a park is another wrestling with personal problems. Finally, a man appears out of his own computer game.

Logela Multimedia’s projections are key element, although they become less important as the show goes on. They’re screened on two wedge-shaped structures covered in fabric that hide and reveal very effectively. A striking moment comes when that material is removed, revealing two dancers are trapped in transparent plastic wrap before fighting their way out. All fully biodegradable, by the way.

As the work moves on, the frame become a playground for the acrobatic circus dance the company are renowned for. And it is very impressive indeed, not only the flying, partnering and tumbling itself, but the way there’s no sense of ‘set up’ that telegraphs what is coming that one so often gets with contemporary circus. It really does flow beautifully. And all the time there’s a distinct sense of urgency, a sort of choreographed chaos.

Act One ends with the two structures put back-to-back, boards on them creating two slopes. That links neatly into Act Two (I thought far more neatly than when I first saw the piece), which sees the set reconstructed into a single huge slope.

It’s a much shorter act, with simpler staging and a greater sense of calm. There’s also a powerful message about coming together and helping others that cannot be avoided as Hidden builds towards its thoughtful resolution.

Hidden by Motionhouse continues on tour. Click here for dates, venues and booking links.