‘It is the obvious which is so difficult to see most of the time. People say “It’s as plain as the nose on your face.” But how much of the nose on your face can you see, unless someone holds a mirror up to you?’ Isaac Asimov, I, Robot.
Welcome to the past, guests of 2113. Your host Xavier Toby will guide you through an elaborate re-enactment of a primitive 2013, a time when waste was obscene, self-indulgence was rife, and greed was the norm. Xavier will attempt to explain the stupidities of the age, although some are without explanation and must merely be marvelled: Tony Abott for instance.
2013: When we were idiots, is interactive theatre at its energetic best. The comedy walking tour has already charmed audiences in Sydney and Melbourne and now this hybrid of stand-up, activism, and even improvisation, is pacing our Brisbane CBD as part of the Anywhere Theatre Festival.
Brew Café and Wine Bar, part of Brisbane’s laneway rejuvenation project and one of the city’s most relaxed bars, is the perfect launching pad for the tour. It’s not long before Xavier uncovers material here there and everywhere, from the irony of our brand names to the oddities of our advertising campaigns. The audience soon gains fresh perspective on familiar streetscapes and we glance at our own reflections in the shiny shop fronts only to see hilarious strangers and a doomed way of life.
Those who’ve experienced Xavier’s casual political and social commentary at previous shows such as the Fringe Festival hit White Trash, or read any of his popular articles such as Racism Works in the Exact Opposite Way as the Kardashians (Huffington Post), will be acquainted with his somewhat humanitarian intentions. Sure the agenda is clear, Xavier wants to challenge us to do better, live smarter, however, his boyish cheek and humility ensure good laughs aren’t sacrificed for the sermon.
By cleverly positioning the audience guests in their own world, Xavier keeps himself in favour. From here we can safely distance ourselves from this vapid society, after all we’re tourists from 2113 where we know better. We can nod in recognition at the ignorance of the species without feeling threatened in the moment.
It’s the unexpected that gives this performance its strength. While Xavier might have you believe the pedestrians jostling passed you are all paid actors, the performance takes place in public spaces beyond his control, which makes every tour unique. Curious pedestrians interject, drunks stumble into the punch lines and Xavier takes it all in his stride, with these interactions offering the best improvised material. He handles it so well in fact, that the audience can forgive the odd lazy pun.
The downside of the unexpected interruptions is that any kind of schedule is thrown out the proverbial window and weary walkers begin to drag their feet towards the tail end of then trip.
As the audience returns to the watering hole to reflect, the general consensus is obvious, our demise is imminent. But thankfully, the take home message is upbeat: All is not lost, and where there is thought, there is hope. Our biggest threat is of course our own complacency.
Those who have the opportunity to experience 2013: When we were idiots in their home city, are strongly encouraged to tag along. Wear your walking shoes.
Placid spectators need not apply.
Rating: 3 stars
2013: When we were idiots (A Walking Tour with Xavier Toby)
Graceful productions
Anywhere Theatre Festival
Brew Cafe & Wine Bar, Lower Burnett Lane, Brisbane
