The Rise of Autobiographical Storytelling and Mortality in Modern Theatre
Haley McGee’s Age is a Feeling, a critically acclaimed solo show, exemplifies a growing trend in contemporary theatre: deeply personal, autobiographical storytelling that confronts universal themes of life, death, and the anxieties of modern existence. The play’s success, from its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe to runs in London, Toronto, and beyond, signals a hunger for authentic narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound emotional level.
From Edinburgh Fringe to Global Stages: A Wave of Intimate Performances
McGee’s journey, beginning with five-star reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe, mirrors the trajectory of many successful solo performers. The intimate nature of these shows – often monologues delivered directly to the audience – fosters a unique connection. Age is a Feeling isn’t simply a performance; it’s presented as a conversation, a shared exploration of life’s complexities. This approach is increasingly popular, offering a counterpoint to larger, more spectacle-driven productions.
The Power of ‘Anecdotal Research’ and Universal Connection
McGee’s process, which she describes as “anecdotal research” involving visits to hospices, mystics, and cemeteries, highlights a key element of this trend. By grounding her work in real-life experiences and soliciting reflections from diverse sources, she taps into universal anxieties and emotions. The inclusion of lines sourced directly from social media, like the observation about finding a white pubic hair, demonstrates a willingness to embrace the mundane and the humorous alongside the profound. This blend of vulnerability and wit is central to the show’s appeal.
Improvisation and the Unpredictability of Life – and Theatre
McGee’s background in improvisation, honed at Second City in Chicago and with the Free Association in London, informs the show’s inherent unpredictability. The audience’s choices dictate which stories are told, mirroring the unpredictable nature of life itself. With 180 possible versions, each performance of Age is a Feeling is unique, creating a sense of immediacy and shared experience. This interactive element distinguishes it from more traditional, scripted performances.
The Impact of Loss and the Search for Meaning
The loss of director Adam Brace in 2023 profoundly impacted McGee’s perspective on the work. His appearance in a dream, offering guidance, underscores the enduring power of artistic collaboration and the ways in which art can provide solace in times of grief. This experience reinforces the show’s central message: that even in the face of mortality, life remains valuable and meaningful.
Mortality as a Catalyst for Creativity
The play’s exploration of mortality isn’t morbid; it’s a catalyst for examining how we live. By confronting the inevitability of death, Age is a Feeling encourages audiences to seize their time and make conscious choices. This theme resonates across cultures, as evidenced by the show’s performances in over ten languages. The ability of the play to move audiences of all ages, from young adults to seniors, speaks to the universality of its message.
Future Trends: The Blurring Lines Between Performance and Personal Essay
The success of Age is a Feeling suggests several potential future trends in theatre. We can expect to see a continued blurring of the lines between performance and personal essay, with artists drawing increasingly on their own experiences to create intimate and emotionally resonant work. The use of interactive elements, allowing audiences to shape the narrative, is as well likely to become more prevalent. The demand for authentic storytelling that addresses complex themes like mortality and meaning will likely continue to grow.
The Rise of Solo Performance and Digital Accessibility
Solo performance, already on the rise, may become even more prominent as a cost-effective and artistically flexible medium. Digital accessibility will also play a crucial role, with streaming and recorded performances reaching wider audiences. This could lead to new forms of interactive storytelling that combine live performance with digital elements.
FAQ
Q: What is Age is a Feeling about?
A: It’s a solo show that explores a life from age 25 to death, examining the choices, regrets, and joys that shape a human experience.
Q: Is every performance of the show the same?
A: No, the show has 180 different possible versions, depending on audience choices.
Q: What inspired Haley McGee to write this play?
A: Hospices, mystics, trips to the cemetery, and reflections on mortality.
Q: Where has Age is a Feeling been performed?
A: Edinburgh Fringe, Soho Theatre (London), Soulpepper (Toronto), and in over ten languages internationally.
Did you know? Haley McGee studied improvisation with Second City in Chicago, which influences the show’s interactive elements.
Pro Tip: Look for opportunities to support independent theatre artists and explore solo performances for a uniquely intimate and thought-provoking experience.
Interested in exploring more thought-provoking theatre? Browse our archive of reviews and interviews.
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