Review: HIGH TIMES AND DIRTY MONSTERS, Liverpool Everyman - Tour
Photo credit: Jack Ehlan
A show of high spirits which encourages the good times whilst also recognising each other's struggles. With a party going on at the Liverpool Everyman Theatre, High Times and Dirty Monsters proves that, whatever issues you face, there's always a way to feel empowered.
In this carefully intertwined personal piece, four stories are told: those of Conor (Billy Pearson) and his Grogu-dressed dog, sofa-surfing Sasha (Joséphine-Fransilja Brookman), father and husband Jamal (Jayden Reid) and his daughter, Angel, and university law student, Katy (Maisy Gordon). Through hip-hop, song and spoken word, the four tell of their lives and challenges including ableism, homelessness, financial struggles and emotional trauma.
The episodic nature of the performance keeps a fast pace to the piece and highlights each individual. Whilst the first act slightly lacks in energy, the opening of the second act with Jamal's story is the perfect rejuvenation for the audience. The section focuses mainly on the character's voice and his relationship with his girlfriend, Maya (Chandu Gopalakrishnan), his daughter and substance abuse. Reid's spoken word, rap and his contrasting relationships with Gopalakrishnan and his monster pull together a really strong section - a true highlight of the show.
The use of British Sign Language is prominent throughout the piece and Chandu Gopalakrishnan is the perfect addition to each character's episode. She incorporates sign into each individual and never fails to bring a performance, a truly admirable feat when cycling through multiple different characters and using an alternate language. Many skills are showcased in addition to her ability to communicate using BSL including her singing voice, physical movement and ability to mirror and embody the personas of other individuals when becoming their conscience. Gopalakrishnan is the standout in this piece and deserves a standing ovation of her own.
All of the technical aspects within the show come together to create an involved piece of theatre. Each set piece and scenery change onstage is described for those who are visually impaired or blind, and captions of the dialogue are projected for those that are deaf, hard of hearing or struggle to verbally process. The performance cannot be complete without the work and skill of Grace Savage, an onstage beatboxer and all-round techno whiz who uses music and creates live sound effects to bring each episode together. The piece is aesthetically stimulating and easily accessible for all, whatever their needs be.
At points, life feels like when you are 'under the tallest tree, you have the smallest me.' High Times and Dirty Monsters is a reminder that, in this world, there is a place for everyone and joy can be found with a community full of love.
An explosion of fun times and acceptance for all.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Harley Keasey
High Times and Dirty Monsters plays at the Liverpool Everyman until 14th October, before going on tour. For more information, please click here.