Shit-faced Showtime

I assumed this show would be a pant-wetter. It was. Having seen a University of Sussex Drama Society version of Shit-faced Shakespeare (ending in ruined props and reputations), I was keen to see another ‘shit-faced’ show. There were just five in the cast, including the musician and drunk. That means only three cast-members on hand to catch, comfort and steer the alcohol-infused actor away from calamity. The show clunked along merrily. With only two or three falls, major injury was avoided. On stage at least. Off-stage, more clatters, clangs, and cursing could be heard.

The show was ridiculous from beginning to end. With a fantastically charismatic, and brave, performance from Mr Drunk Actor, this show brought tears of laughter, cringes of embarrassment, and moments close to terror.

The wonderfully camp drunk unashamedly laid himself bare. Literally. The audience were treated to his naked chest, arms and, most frequently, nipples. As the musician noted, Mr Drunk Actor appeared to have a nipple addiction… It wasn’t only Mr Drunk’s own nipples which got attention; he made a habit of trying to fondle those of the pianist, who skillfully played on with the hungry calf-like menace hanging on to his terrified teats.

Two daring members of the audience accepted the alcoholic chime and harmonica. The shows musical call to drink, which only signaled further havoc. On these instruments being played, Mr Drunk had to down another. I think we all felt a little nauseous on his behalf.

The show was ridiculous from beginning to end. With a fantastically charismatic, and brave, performance from Mr Drunk Actor, this show brought tears of laughter, cringes of embarrassment, and moments close to terror. The actors not only dealt with cursing and infantile outbursts, but a lot of wobbling. The spontaneity kept us on the edge of our seats. At the end of the show I’m sure I wasn’t the only one after tickets to Shitfaced Shakespeare…