4’33” in Baghdad
Referencing John Cage’s musical composition, “4’33” in Baghdad” is not what it seems. It goes back to the recent past, and the persisting present of the riveting Middle East, to reveal how music might have been the impetus for the Arab springs. The show is an academic undertaking framed as a presentation or a talk. It cuts dark truths with striptease and unsettling humour.
The short show is not quite a performance (hence my use of the word presentation – oh how academic indeed!) but an oration of things we know and those we wish we didn’t. An allusion to a piece of music that emphasizes silence, “4’33’ in Baghdad” is a striptease, with much teasing and a different kind of stripping that leaves us all speechless.
F*cking Perfect
“F*cking Perfect” is a performance that feels like a stream of consciousness. It starts, as we all do, by waking up in the morning and pressing snooze. Comprising of free writing by the performers, the show combines majestic movement with marvellous spoken word, to mesmerize the audience through storytelling. The show recounts tales of growing up and depicts how we talk about and perceive our bodies, particularly as girls and women. It chants thoughts that arise in our minds, some of which we can’t shake off.
Through all things imperfectly perfected, “F*cking Perfect” is candid and chilling. True to its multiplicity of experiences it attempts to provide a glimpse into our own minds. We laugh through recognition, nod through the idiosyncrasies, and relate to the show through our own unique experiences.
Police Cops In Space
A roadshow of slapstick and uninhibited humour, this comedy got a lot of laughs. Heading to the Factory Theatre, I was struck by the queue waiting to watch this production. All the way from the UK, the show brought roars of laughter to a packed audience, whilst the performers charmed their way into our hearts with endless mirth. Having said that, if you’re looking for something that makes sense, this is not the show for you. Even though Fringe shows are notorious for being minimal on costume changes and props, “Police Cops In Space” uses them in ingenious and innovative ways, which is a reason enough to go see the performance.
If you’re looking for a goofy and politically incorrect comedy that tickles your strange and incoherent funny bone, then this show is for you!
The Toronto Fringe runs till the 15th of July. Get your tickets here!
– Maira Hassan