Review: Gavin’s Menage (Cirque du Sogay)

Performing to a full house at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre in Toronto, Gavin Crawford left the crowd cheering by the final act. With his hysterical original one-man show, Gavin’s Ménage blends various characters together ranging from celebrities to politicians to a Pride “virgin.”

This fast-paced satirical comedy is written with wit and keen observation, and executed with charm, detail and energy.

The fabulous opening act begins with Crawford strutting down the stairs as Lady Gaga wearing nothing but cling wrap and a colourful wig. The house laughed riotously when he states in Lady Gaga’s voice, “I wrote Born This Way so that gays would finally have an anthem. I thought it up while sitting at the piano inventing originality.”

Crawford didn’t need much with him on stage as his unique and diverse range of characters spoke for themselves. The stage was simply dressed with long fabric hanging from the ceiling representing Gay Pride colours. Each dangling piece adorned Crawford’s next distinctive costume piece.

Integrating a film screen on the other side of the intimate theatre stage, Crawford interacted with various pre-recorded videos of characters, such as Chantal Herbert, often seen on CBC. Perhaps most hilarious was his role as the host of a nature show where he comments on and intricately scrutinizes what he calls the “post-mo” gay man.

At one point, Crawford even turns this comedy act into a cabaret, accompanied by a live pianist. In his incredibly accurate portrayal of Michael Igantieff, Crawford sings his version of “I Will Survive” poking fun at yet another relevant topic.

My guest and I agreed that we both loved all of Crawford’s roles but some of the standouts were characters such as Rufus Wainwright, Michael Ignatieff and finally, his depiction of a teenage boy giving a speech at his father’s recent gay marriage reception. Honest and hilarious, we were engaged the entire time along with the rest of the crowd.

Having recently won a Dora Award, Gavin Crawford is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with. A brilliant script writer and a talented performer, Crawford connects with his audience leaving us with much to celebrate in the upcoming days.

Details

– Gavin’s Menage presented by Cirque du Sogay played at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre (12 Alexander Street) on Tuesday, June 28th at 8pm. Other Pride shows will continue to take place at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre until July 3rd.

– Tickets cost $15 for students and seniors and $20 for adults. Tickets are also available in advance by calling the box office at 416-975-8555.