What I liked
Laser has this incredible talent for mixing comedy with serious, heartfelt, and heavy conversations that need to be had. So on the one hand, you’re feeling this gut-wrenching battle to live your truth, and at the same time you’re repotting your mandrakes. Laser allows you to feel the hurt and the laughter side-by-side without forcing you to laugh at your pain. He reminds you that there is still good in the world and silliness to be had. The whole scenario of the time-machine and the way it’s carried out reinforces this side-by-side. The props were clever and minimalistic. The combination of props, lighting, and sound effects really sold the time travel.
Using JK Rowling as a conversation foil was an interesting and clever choice. The use of MM elements was well-integrated and well-done for this one-man show.
The song ‘Pebble’ is the most heart-melting take-away that could stand on its own. The more playful ‘Some People Aren’t Bisexual’ carries a comedic tone but conveys that confusing battle of needing to transition when someone else’s heart is involved. I enjoyed that Laser opened and closed by accompanying himself on the guitar, giving us a glimpse into his singer-songwriter side.
What I didn't like
I wish the show leaned a little more into the time travel aspect to impose a more cohesive plot. Adding a costume element to each of the time jumps would help.
While I like the notion of ending with the titular song, I felt the show needed one more moment to wrap up, bring the lessons of all the time jumps together, and bring the time-travel theme full circle. Since we’re looking at a history/biography, there aren’t strong plot vibes and it runs like a conversation, but I just want that home-hitting ‘moral of the story.’
My overall impression
“We all have rules.”
Laser’s story is relatable and moving. One thing that really hit home was the existence of these unspoken rules we carry from childhood. Like ‘it’s okay to be trans as long as you’re not trans.’ This kind of unspoken expectation is what led Laser, me, and who knows how many others to delay questioning much later in life.
Overall, Laser’s message that trans people have always been here and will always be here is important, and the musical comedy show is a great vehicle.
