What I liked
I liked how the simplicity and “youthful” vibe of the original music softened the more “bizarre” elements going on around it, and how those elements in turn added an element to the music that gave it a deeper meaning beyond the just the lyrics and the melody. I began to see the message that linked the two, at least as I understood it. That modern love is often completely absurd and “surface” and that underneath that, people have a deeper complexity that can seem to make no sense at all. And that much of our stories are “unfinished” and “unpolished” but there is humanity and heart in that state of being. Sam had such confidence, and was so relaxed in the performance of all these juxtaposing ideas and images that I felt totally taken care during this unique and fascinating piece of theatre. He reminded me of Andy Kaufman, only kinder, and without the audience discomfort.
What I didn't like
Honestly, I liked the whole thing. But I was up for an adventure and was prepared for something completely different. I think expecting Sam to make this into a more “typical” show would do a great injustice to his unique sense of humor and theatricality.
My overall impression
This show had me feeling pleasure 10 times deeper than I ever imagined possible. I feel like I didn’t just see a show, I had an experience with my fellow audience members with Sam as our unexpected yet very capable guide. It was delightful. By the end, I couldn’t contain my laughter and… my pleasure.
