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A whimsical exploration of peculiar employment scenarios, delivering moments of laughter and occasional poignancy, but falling short of deeper thematic resonance.Summary
Rating
Good
Odd Jobs, true to its name, comprises a collection of short plays centred around the theme of unconventional employment; exploring the lengths people will go and the things they will do to make ends meet – or perhaps better phrased as what won’t they do. The production has a deliberate lack of a linear narrative, with each of the six short plays functioning as a standalone piece, interspersed with movement sequences. In each piece, we encounter two or three unnamed characters immersed in absurd job scenarios, resulting in a generally comedic yet whimsical atmosphere, occasionally punctuated by moments of tenderness and poignancy.
An array of odd jobs unfold on stage, ranging from individuals paid to watch paint dry, to professional mourners, and even a Dungeons and Dragons game master. Between pieces a voiceover features people recounting the strangest jobs they have ever done. One standout play involves a seal that responds only to positive reinforcement, delightfully portrayed by Matthew Goldesbrough, alongside George Solomou as his trainer. Their comedic chemistry had the audience roaring with laughter, showcasing their adeptness at comedic timing and physical humour. Additionally, Kaustubh Vaidya has impeccable comedic timing and physicality in each play he is in, leaving a lasting impression throughout the performance.
While the ensemble cast works cohesively, the movement sequences feel slightly contrived and jarring. Following a predictable trajectory from organised and orderly to chaotic, they seem to comment on work culture and the characters’ liberation from their odd jobs. However, these sequences, while serving as a thematic throughline, sometimes veer into a tone reminiscent of GCSE Drama, especially evident during the closing ensemble song about jobs, work and specifically the question we all ask almost every day – “What do you do?” Although the cast’s vocal performance is commendable and brought smiles to the audience, the moment feels forced and unnecessary, detracting from the overall experience.
While Odd Jobs provides moments of laughter, it primarily serves as a showcase of peculiar job scenarios without delving deeper into broader themes. It might leave a more significant impact if it offered a bit more depth. My experience aligned closely with my expectations, albeit slightly diminished.
However, the six-person cast (including Mackenzie Larsen, Tobi Martins-Ojo and Keaton Wilkerson) executes scene transitions with ease, and effectively maintains the play’s pace and momentum throughout. Despite its shortcomings, the production has some more memorable and nuanced moments. And as the audience exited the theatre, the familiar tunes of Dolly Parton and Rihanna provided a fitting postlude; something that could never go amiss.
Written and directed by: Madison Gerringer
Produced by: Matthew Goldesbrough
Odd Jobs plays at The Hope Theatre until 6th April.
Further information and booking can be found here.
