FIVE YEARS IN AMSTERDAM

What I liked

I loved Brendan Hunt’s use of lights, music, costume work, space work, and a projected background screen, the combination of which elevated his performance from a propless, soundless monologue to a one man show with the cadence and intricacy of a full ensemble production. Even the rare moments when he went off script felt perfectly placed in-script, the side-bars and tangents in perfect accordance with the improvisational topic of story. Brendan’s honest reflection of his mental health journey was deeply appreciated, not least for his ability to sandwich such serious subject matter into fast-paced comedic scene work.

What I didn't like

Nothing. I loved every second.

My overall impression

I had no idea what to expect coming into the performance and was still amazed. Brendan Hunt is a master of the stage, incorporating a projected slideshow, intricate lights displays, various music cues, and sporadic costume changes to convey his story, all while engaging with the audience at every turn during every scene. His story was compelling and his manner of performing it deeply heartfelt, shockingly honest, and gut-wrenchingly funny. I would see it again any time that it’s performed. Brendan isn’t afraid to expose the rawest, most intimate facts of his life (and body) in sacrifice of telling a hilarious, heartwarming story.