A unicorn, blue noodles, and a sixth sense: welcome to Laika's 'Hypersenses'

Antwerp-based theater company Laika is known for immersive performances that engage all senses. Their latest production, "Hypersenses," aims to go beyond the traditional five senses, exploring an elusive sixth sense. The performance draws inspiration from "The Lady and the Unicorn," a 15th-century tapestry series that depicts the senses and hints at a "sense of the heart."

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In 'Hypersenses,' they aim even higher. Besides the 5 classic senses, they want to seek out that elusive 6th.

Laika collaborates again with the music group Zefiro Torna, who blend medieval instruments with a contemporary sound. Their previous joint work, "Balsam," received critical acclaim. "Hypersenses" features synesthesia, where senses blend, most notably through food. Audience members sit at long tables and are served dishes designed by artistic director and chef Peter De Bie. A spicy broth turns dark blue noodles pink, and a crunchy cookie engages both hearing and taste.

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A spicy broth transforms dark blue noodles into pink glow-worms.

Costumes by designer Jana Roos are a highlight, evoking colorful mythical creatures reminiscent of "The Lady and the Unicorn." Even the simpler costumes of the chef and musicians incorporate embroidered eyes, noses, and mouths. The set design also nods to the medieval tapestry, with musicians behind sheer curtains and a dance pole resembling a unicorn. Despite these elements, the reviewer felt the performance left something to be desired, likening it to admiring a tapestry up close and recognizing the weaver's skill but still wanting more.

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Roos creates brightly colored mythical creatures, as if they've just broken free from 'The Lady and the Unicorn.'

The reviewer suggests that "Hypersenses" is a sensory experience that the body understands more quickly than the mind. The integration of taste, smell, and touch, alongside visual and auditory elements, creates a unique theatrical journey. The collaboration with Zefiro Torna and the innovative culinary and costume designs contribute to the show's distinctiveness, even if the overall impact doesn't fully satisfy the reviewer's expectations.

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Even in the sober costumes of the chef and musicians, embroidered eyes, noses, mouths sneak in.