Happy As Larry
2011
Shaun Parker & company
What makes us happy? Happy as Larry is a funny, playful and poignant new dance show, which investigates the elusive nature of human happiness.
Created by award-winning Australian choreographer Shaun Parker, this powerful performance combines an intoxicating mix of ballet, break-dance, roller-skating and highly physical contemporary dance.
The cast of characters is developed from the Enneagram, a psychological system that maps nine personality types: The Perfectionist; the Giver; the Performer; the Tragic Romantic; the Observer; the Devil’s Advocate; the Optimist; the Boss; and the Mediator – all rich inspiration for Shaun Parker’s insightful creativity. Set to a vibrant electro/acoustic score, the performers bring fun and danger to the fore in this innovative and moving dance work.
‘Happy as Larry is brilliantly choreographed, flawlessly and joyously performed, and thoroughly entertaining from start to finish. I literally sat on the edge of my seat.’ Australian Stage
‘It’s smiles all round – on stage and in the audience. You have to welcome a dance piece about happiness…delightful.’ Sydney Morning Herald
‘Shaun Parker’s ‘dance’ hit is so cutting edge it actually wanders off the edge of any single-word definition… Parker is a genius.’ The Daily Telegraph
UK tour is supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.
