Presented by Token Events
Reviewed 26 February 2016
Hannah Gadsby’s latest show Dogmatic is a big step away from her previous shows in which she layers her performance with extra charm and quirky laughs.
The stories within Dogmatic are joined together by an overarching parody of a Taylor Swift concert. It has songs (or stories), video intermissions, costume changes, empowering speeches and the constant reminder that the underlying structure of the show is based on Swift’s 1989 world tour.
The style Gadsby has become known for is still found in the show. The mix of tales within the show is all delivered in a happier style where the gloomier subjects are still able to be present but appear in a different light.
It is a highly researched and cleverly written show. Additional layers of knowledge appear that didn’t stand out as much in Gadsby’s previous shows. Gadsby’s wit and confidence in delivery felt to have increased as well taking her already skilful style that extra bit further.
The use of multimedia, lighting and well-crafted speeches successfully deconstruct the impact stage craft can have on an audience. All the while the Gadsby personality remains strong in her performance. The dry delivery style and darker elements found in her earlier shows do sneak into the set but the overall tone is more upbeat.
The design of the show is well suited for the large crowd numbers that filled The Factory at the Garden of Unearthly Delights. The media elements all stood out and increased their overall impact.
Gadsby is highly entertaining and her new show is a smartly constructed performance making it unique from her previous appearances at the Adelaide Fringe Festival.
Reviewed by Alex Dunkin
Twitter: @AlexDunkin
Rating (out of 5): 4.5
Venue: The Factory – Garden of Unearthly Delights
Season: 25 February – 28 February
Duration: 60 mins
Tickets: $35 – $40
Bookings: Book through FringeTix online or at a FringeTix box office (booking fees apply)
https://www.adelaidefringe.com.au
www.gardenofunearthlydelights.com.au
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