RAVEMOMS
Created by Kel MacDonald and Hilary Peck
Produced by The Precariat (Ottawa, Canada)
60M |
Content Notes: Abrupt Loud Noise, Audience Participation, Mature Language, Sexual Content, Mental Health Topics, Flashing Lights
Never have I ever left a Fringe show as sweaty as I did for RAVEMOMS.
Upon entering the venue, patrons are greeted by VJ Sharon stamping wrists. There is a minimal set of disco balls and a full-stage projection screen. DJ Sharon is on the decks as we’re welcomed to the House rave and told that for the next hour, they’ll be treating us to the sweet drum-driven sounds of house music!
A non-stop, hour-long dance party, clowns DJ Karen and VJ Sharon were very generous hosts. The initial introduction was incredibly sweet, with a highlight on consent and checking in on fellow ravers as well as informing the audience of their come-and-go policy in case of overstimulation or if anyone needs a break for any reason. They also did visual descriptions of their set and outfits. Our hosts acknowledged that the genre originated in queer Black circles in the 1980s and delivered fun facts throughout the show about the origins of certain samples, the way the music was originally produced, and some of the prominent founders of the genre. Paired with great projections, the audience was invited to get up and fill the space in front of the stage within the first few minutes of the show. It was incredibly delightful to see everyone so willing to participate and dance without any inhibitions.
The visuals were engaging and fun, some recognizable from classics like Rocky Horror Picture Show and Paris is Burning while others were fun, obscure, and an excellent addition to the music. DJ Karen also has candy bracelets that they said would be given to the folks that best embodied PLUR – peace, love, unity and respect – at the end of the rave.
I danced, I laughed, I joined a congo line – and afterward, sweaty and smiling, planned to come to at least one more of these show-raves. Each night is a different theme and this show really IS a party. The shared experience of getting to dance with the rest of the audience was really special. So if you want to dance and have a silly fun time, I would make sure to add it to your list.
RAVEMOMS is playing at Club SAW until June 25, 2023. Visit ottawafringe.com/fringe/ for the schedule and box office info. Read more reviews at https://apt613.ca/category/festival/fringe/.
.gif)
