Total Novice

Thought provoking, incredible story storytelling! It was hilarious mixed with moments of poetic sadness, creating an interesting reflection on society and human connection.... full review

Fantastic, entertaining show--David takes the audience on a wild, unpredictable ride that will keep you thinking long after the show ends. See it!... full review

Excellent show. David Rodwin strikes the perfect balance of humor and drama in bringing this wildly entertaining story to life. See it!... full review

At first, me thinks, this is going to be another guy-going-thru-therapy on stage guised at a one-man-show...but this guy, David Rodwin, had me fairly soon and I was along for the ride...and mean like a real ride...like if Disneyland had a Spaced-Mountain-Crack-Whore-Porn-Star ride. First off, the guy is mesmerizing to watch and listen to, and the story that unfolds, uniquely original, and soon after all disbelief is suspended. And as you're listening to the story, you see it cinematically playing out in your mind, it's that visual and visceral. David sings in this and one wishes he would write a rock musical about it. But for me, mostly, I want to see the movie. This is a movie. Cohen Brothers meets Tarantino meets Rodwin. Five Stars!... full review

This show takes you on a journey inside the head of a Gen Y guy looking for love, meaning, adventure, and connection in the random corner of the LA nightscape. Rodwin successfully lets you into his mind so you understand his perspective, his self-image, his inner needs... and then introduces you to an encounter with an over-sexed, over-narcotized young woman who is seemingly adept at playing her cards, but is truly a lost little girl with less than a bright future. In a style that is energetic, engrossing, humorous but not glib, Rodwin touches on our need for eros, connection, and the comfort of strangers; and he talks about sexuality without ever being crass. ... full review

David Rodwin tells the story of one fateful night smoking crack with a porn star in this compelling solo show, which moves beyond the titillation of sex and drugs to show a transformation of character and address themes of loneliness, salvation, abuse, friendship and love. It's a rollercoaster ride from beginning to end, with lots of laughs and even a few tears. Total Novice is surprisingly moving, and David's telling of the story leaves the audience enrapt because he is, in fact, not just telling the story, but reliving it before our very eyes. The subject matter could've been addressed cheaply with easy laughs, but instead, it goes far deeper than you could ever imagine, and leaves those who witness it desperately wanting to know more.... full review

I was absolutely riveted by TOTAL NOVICE. I found it alternately hilarious and truly moving, and utterly engaging all the way through. I knew only a little about the subject matter before I got there, and was slightly apprehensive about what it would be like - but I LOVED every minute of this brilliantly honest show. It is tightly constructed, well-crafted and masterfully performed, and I was rooting for David Rodwin from the first minute. RUN, don't walk to this wonderful 75-minute adventure in solo storytelling!!... full review

David Rodwin is a natural storyteller so it's no surprise to learn that Spaulding Gray thought so too and took him under his wing. But David's less stylized performing style, though still as dramatic, is more human and therefore more touching. He's a relatable goofball whose conscious keeps interfering with his baser instincts. David's story is pretty great, but it's the storyteller's journey through it that really grabs you. Great choices in lighting and blocking help move this story along as well as give you pause to think and feel.... full review

One man on a stage, and the story rivets you to your seat for 75 minutes. A strange, unbelievable, and quietly wondrous true story. ... full review

A riveting, profound performance from David Rodwin who creates such an intimate atmosphere you feel like you're sitting next to your buddy at the bar hearing him tell you the craziest of stories. Most impressive was not just the hilarity of it all but the sheer, raw vulnerability that Rodwin unabashedly shares with the audience. He's such a superb storyteller you'll want to laugh and cry with him all at once. Bravo to director Adriana Colon and designer Aaron Francis as well. A fantastic show not to be missed!... full review