Unexploded Ordnances (UXO)
About the show
Veteran feminist performance art troupe Split Britches presents the US premiere of this new exploration of aging, anxiety, and ‘doomsday.' Part of The Public Theater's Under The Radar Festival. More…
'Unexploded Ordnances (UXO)' was created through conversation and collaboration with an array of elders and artists. Developed between the UK and US, Lois Weaver and Peggy Shaw have created a unique production, combining darkly playful Dr Strangelove-inspired performance with a daring new protocol for public discussion – the Situation Room.
"Good-natured silliness with dashes of profundity sums up this engaging performance piece...There are leisurely tangents. Things are energized when after a series of selective questions Shaw has the 12 oldest audience members sitting onstage...This sequence is the core of the production and is sedately compelling...Weaver’s direction is steady and unobtrusive with occasional presentational flourishes...A humorous, provocative, and cryptic meditation on the meaning of human existence." Full Review
“The most joyful of wakes, a celebration of the precious time we’re given on Earth, and an appeal for us to be better...The final countdown to doom is then filled not with dourness but with conversation about how we can improve...For those with A-type personalities, ‘Unexploded Ordnances’ might be a bit too aimless, its meandering become exasperating...But at the end of the day...I simply can’t think of a better place to await the end of the world than with Split Britches." Full Review
"Feels very much of the minute...Weaver kept things moving, and when they slowed down, Shaw would remind her that the clock was ticking...Still, the show can feel structurally wobbly: It has a lot to say and is not always sure how to say it. Inspired moments do bubble up...It is also wonderful to watch the rapport Weaver and Shaw have forged over shared decades. When the ringing cellphones mark the end of the show, you wish you could continue chatting at the bar around the corner." Full Review
See it if you want to experience a different approach to exploring political and social issues.
Don't see it if you expect a plot. There are a lot of themes and two definite characters.
See it if You like engaging political work, especially if you are interested in audience participation.
Don't see it if You want a completely structured narrative with a script that doesn't vary.
See it if you want to see something different. This show is unique and very thought-provoking. Great performances. Very relevant and engaging.
Don't see it if you prefer traditional theatre.
Cast & Creatives (7)
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