Presented by Feast Festival and Black Cat Theatre
Reviewed on 12 November 2019
Black Cat Theatre’s cabaret production Confessions at the Pub retells original journal entries through an intimate and compelling performance. The story details the individual coming out experiences of two former high school students, Jess and Isaac.
Both performers allow the audience to peer into the deep recesses of their minds as they bravely and unashamedly recall some of the fragile stages of their queer adolescence. The good, the bad, and the ugly. The naturalistic and conversational storytelling approach gave them permission to lay out key moments of their past with conviction and heart.
For many queer people, remembering their high school experience can spark some delicate and painful memories. Between the abuse from homophobic peers, to the perpetual strive for acceptance, there is no denying these times were rather difficult. However, Confessions at the Pubunapologetically confronts this by turning it into a moment of triumph and pride.
This production successfully proves there is strength in vulnerability—that revealing certain aspects of yourself can initiate a dialogue about topics that would otherwise be supressed, or silenced in mainstream discourse. Nothing seems to be off limits and you can appreciate the authenticity.
However, this show lacks a bit of consistency. The rough and sporadic transitions tend to feel unpolished. It also becomes a bit confusing when the performers maintain a close audience interaction, but then suddenly break that relationship towards the end. If these sorts of elements were adjusted, Confessions at the Pubhas the potential to be an even more insightful and compelling cabaret production.
Tickets for the rest of their season during Feast Festival are limited, so secure your seat by booking online here.
Reviewed by Tanner Muller
Rating out of 5: 3.5
Venue: The Kings Head Hotel, 357 King William Street, Adelaide, SA 5000
Dates: Tuesday 12 November, Thursday 14 November, Tuesday 19 November, Wednesday 20 November, Thursday 21 November
Duration: 70 minutes (with interval)
Tickets: General Admission $10, Concession $8
Bookings: www.feast.org.au/events/confessions-at-the-pub/
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