Are you suspicious of your marketing department sacrificing humans for financial gain? If so see these sketch monologues. Dark, witty, funny, sad, ridiculous and true is the delivery of Slaves of Starbucks, showing at the Hill Street Theatre. The one man show consists of a free form flow of American philosophy laced with dark and carefully considered satire. The show is delivered through monologues and mime artistry which at times flow into each other both logically and, to wondrous effect, in great contrast.
The music in this piece does much to enhance the monologues and gives the most pathos when its tone opposes the tone of the monologue itself. Through this arrangement of words, music and movement, the show is capable of some genuinely touching moments. This is not just another show reminding us of the ills of consumerism. No sir. Here, the interesting focus is how the kings of consumerism across the pond view the rest of the world through their green tinted spectacles. “If you do not consume, we will consume you” is the mantra of the performance poking satirical fun at our stateside friends.
The monologues look at in flight entertainment, sport, science, religion, Celene Dion, a deconstruction of the Archie comics, shopping malls and castration. Humour, sharp and dark, is obviously the main focus of these sketches, but more weighty emotions are not ignored with the inspired musical choices lending some monologues a sad poignancy because they are true. That terrible truth is that America doesn’t care if you are bleeding, as long as you mop up your own blood.
Unlike Starbucks lattes, it’s a rich, dark blend with a distinctive taste that is definitely worth the money.
4/5
Steven Carey
