It felt like a gift to witness Brendan’s openness and honesty. We laughed, we cried, we were hanging on his every word.
What I didn't like
No improvements needed! But was thinking (it might be difficult to find the right venue for this) I’d love to see a version of this show in the round. Brendan is so great at captivating an audience and it could be interesting to lean into the submersible setting even more as the pressure and vulnerability rise throughout.
My overall impression
Brendan is such an incredible storyteller, it’s IMPOSSIBLE to look away. The full range! I’ve seen his stand up before, and The Abyss showcases his expert joke writing abilities with an incredibly deep level of raw personal vulnerability and razor-sharp awareness. A beautifully crafted and performed piece that is jam-packed with intimacy, thought, and heart. He makes every person in the room feel like he is speaking directly to them. He truly is a rare and multi-faceted talent.