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GASHA is part fashion show, part acrobatics and part electronic music festival. Anchored by a soundtrack that combines the Japanese koto with pulsating beats and backdropped with abstract visuals on the big screen, GASHA is a quirky, evocative experience that borrows elements from Japanese culture and codifies it in a futuristic setting.
The use of kimonos in the aerial acts were particularly effective. I thought the kimonos might prove too cumbersome but they lent a sense of ethereal drama to the performances. The hair suspension aerialist looked spectacularly spectral with the swathes of fabric loosely hung from her shoulders.
My favourite act was the aerial silks. Admittedly, I have a fondness for the silks but this was particularly memorable not just for the skills but for how the artist’s persona shone through the routine. The artist projected an aura that gave off Harajuku girl meets Harley Quinn. She was kittenish and cheekily unhinged. The combination of her skills and persona brought added depth to the unrestrained ragdolling she executed. It felt like we were watching someone play, unfettered and it was a joy to watch.
Unfortunately, the irregular pacing in GASHA impacted my enjoyment of the evening. One act in particular had such a prolonged build up that I started to lose focus. This was such a shame because the last third of their act was spectacular flex of balance and control.
Similarly, the music breaks in between acts were enjoyable but felt misplaced. I really wanted to stand up and move to the beat. However, I had to settle for bobbing my head and tapping my feet in my seat as I didn’t think the rows seated behind me would have appreciated me obstructing their view with my unco dancing.
GASHA is rated G and family friendly. While the content is certainly G-rated, I would not recommend bringing young children (or children with sensory issues) to GASHA because the strobe lighting, visual projections and thumping soundtrack can be overwhelming for littleys.
GASHA is now showing at Fringe World until 15th February 2026.