This performance was very interesting, while I honestly did not understand all of it I was able to appreciate some of the symbolism between the dancers actions and The Overview effect. In the beginning the dancers moved erratically around the 360 degree performance space in a way that seemed random, almost as if it were improv, not choreographed in advance. I assumed this was supposed to symbolize their journey into space although my only real clue to this inference was the fact that towards the end of this section of the performance they came together and stared out at the audience in awe, as if they were seeing Earth from space for the first time. Later they seemed to acknowledge the change instilled in them by the Overview effect by chanting the names of every country in the world followed by “harmony,” “army,” and “unity.” I think Julian and Jocelyn really captured the emotional and mental change in a person before and after the Overview effect. As they “descended back to earth” the two established physical contact for the the first time in the entire 50 minute piece showing both their personal and interpersonal development as a result of the experience.

There were still plenty of things I did not understand about the performance. First of all why all the beach balls? Why did Julian make all the expressive though not coherent noises prior to and during his release of the beach balls? Why did they kick the majority of the balls to the edge of the stage but leave some in the center in a seemingly random and unplanned accord? Were the balls a microcosm for our solar system or a macrocosm for a persons mind/thought process/conscience? Despite my desire to have a better understanding for all parts of the piece, A View From Nowhere was a fantastic presentation that both challenged and entertained me. I was lucky enough to be a part of the select few who got to experience it.