What I liked
John Heimbuch’s performance of Beowulf was simply complex; It was he, a chair and a black box theater, yet his ability to fill the space with pictures he created for us with his physicality, voice and ability to just BE in the moment was wildly vivid. He would find opportunities to use the shadows of the stage at just the right moments. I saw Amy Rummenie’s masterly direction shining through- and she is indeed a genius in this realm. Some of my favorite parts of the show were times when John would stand in his silence- completely comfortable and solid. He has such a gift for turning a phrase in unexpected ways that surprises us, draws us in, makes us think and even laugh, despite the tales of battle and death. The breath work that is required to sustain this show for an hour is intense and John delivered with ease. Please go see this show, especially if you love the craft of storytelling.
What I didn't like
I am honored to have been able to see this brilliant work. I was completely sucked into this world and the hour just flew by. I don’t have a suggestion for improvement except maybe…more of this, please?
My overall impression
What a beautiful and special show, as performed by John Heimbuch. I think everyone should go see this show to remind us what good storytelling really is. Brilliant acting makes us think it’s so easy, when in reality, John left every particle of himself for us on that blank stage- a stage that he made look full of warriors, dragons and kings for a solid hour.
