What I liked
At the half way point Gaddis invites us to write our own 2nd half, and then becomes more connected to her own 2nd half of text when she brings up her daughter. Would love to see this relationship explored deeper.
The most magical moment I’ve witnessed at HFF25 so far happened when the giant WIN poster slowly unpeeled itself from the wall at a particularly heightened moment and hung like a deflated party balloon- perfect timing!
Lots of eye candy and spectacle, and I do so love good spectacle.
What I didn't like
For an acclaimed artist in the biz, you’d think their content reel would be tight with snappy edits and last half the time. If it’s interminable length was to cover the costume change for the unnecessary cheerleading opening bit, there’s an easy way to kill two birds. The production really begins with her second entrance.
The biggest issue the show faces is its own identity. Is it motivational talk? Is it an autobiography? Is it an existential crisis-solo play? “WIN! A Self-Help Masterclass and Musical Fever Dream,” unfortunately, is not any of those things. Yet.
Even though the performance exists mostly without the fourth wall, it is when the performer has a conversation with a disembodied voice that the caricature of Gaddis becomes a rooted, believable, human artist. I believe this actor has the chops when given a scene partner; it is a shame that they couldn’t find the same connection with a loving and largely fan-based audience.
It’s a problem when the light changes are more dramatic than the content. Much of the physical comedy bits and awkward dance transitions felt forced. A set was created but not utilized, largely because it didn’t serve the piece; I deeply respect the inclination to go “old school” with a slide show, I just wish it was fully embraced. Too many jokes were explained instead of told, were self-pitying instead of self-deprecating, and I wish the artist would have invested more trust in her audience.
My overall impression
Spectacular spectacle! Gaddis’s sequin tracksuit sparkling in the light of the lofted McCadden Theatre Main Space may alone be worth the price of admission!
