Inspired (very) loosely by Franz Kafka’s Metamorphosis, the narrative follows a father and his son, who happens to be a bug. When Dad takes his son to work, things take a turn that raises questions about responsibility, morality and forgiveness. But this isn't a solemn literary adaptation. It's one fuelled by frenetic clowning with a dash of substance to give you something to chew over.
The pair are wonderfully responsive, picking up on the room’s energy and finding opportunities for spontaneous comedy that ensures the laughter in the room keeps coming. They draw us into the action, inviting us to provide sound effects and to also weigh in on what takes place. This involvement makes us feel almost as much a part of the show as the performers themselves.
What makes the show so enjoyable is the balance between its anarchic humour and its surprisingly thoughtful undercurrent. Beneath the ridiculous premise lies a story about love, difference and the difficult choices we make when our values are put to the test. Just as you settle into the nonsense, you're given a brief moment that has you reconsidering what you’re watching, before plunging right back into the chaos.
Dugdale-Martin and Nodder have a real knack for bringing an audience together. We’re all in on the joke, swept up in the absurdity and never quite sure what’s coming next. Inventive, playful and gloriously silly, Crush the Bug is a terrific reminder of how fun theatre can be when it throws caution to the wind. RUFF AS GUTZ have totally crushed this.
SHOW DETAILS
Venue: Trades Hall, Cnr Lygon & Victoria Sts, Carlton
Season: until 18 October | Wed - Sat 10pm, Sun 9pm
Duration: 60 minutes
Tickets: $25 Full | $15 Conc
Bookings: Melbourne Fringe Festival
Image credit: Charlie Jewell
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