Advertisement

Culture Theatre

Fringe review: Wagon Play

WAGON PLAY by Ben Hayward (Theatre By Committee) At Majlis Arts Garden (163 Walnut). July 13-14 at 8 pm, July 15 at 5 and 8 pm. See listing. Rating: NNNN

This immersive outdoor experience takes the form of a Resetting Ceremony reminiscent of Scientologys going clear in which disciples of The Way strive for levels of self-actualization by rejecting the past.

Within a garden setting we all worship at the altar of cult leader Amber Moon (Emma Banigan), a severe boss in a sparkly jumpsuit who can belt a pop ballad if necessary. Her acolytes ranging from elegant drag queen Sasha (Brendan Kinnon) to lovable loser Klikey (Katherine Cappellacci) are competing for a chance to level up the chain of truth actualization by presenting arguments for the “6 Freedoms.”

Within its relentless barrage of pop references, Wagon Play offers some astute and funny commentaries on celebrity culture. I especially loved Alexis Gontan as Beyonce in her understated Freedom from History routine (take what you need to make what you want). Steve Jobs, Kanye West, Cher and the Kardashians also crop up as the cast sings and dances their way to Full Truth Actualization (were all individuals and no one else matters).

The concept could go bigger and even sharper, but its still fun, with lots of details gleaned from the cult culture of charismatic leaders. Wallflowers need not worry an induction process determines whos up for participation. (Tip: Level 1s get to just sit on chairs and watch).

Advertisement

Exclusive content and events straight to your inbox

Subscribe to our Newsletter

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

By signing up, I agree to receive emails from Now Toronto and to the Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

Recently Posted