The Tao Of Lloyd theatre review: Witty workings of wisdom
As anti-capitalism as ever, Lloyd Dobler takes on taoism in Dennis Trainor Jr’s snappy, thought-provoking solo show
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This likeable hybrid stand-up/monologue is a stage version of Dennis Trainor Jr’s successful podcast. Trainor plays Lloyd Dobler (John Cusack’s character in the film Say Anything), all grown-up, still fervently anti-capitalist and now, inevitably, podcasting. We join him at the end of a three-day wellness summit: Deepak Chopra was supposed to do the keynote but he’s ended up in the Epstein files.
Once you get your head around the set-up, there’s a tightly constructed hour of smart and sly humour to enjoy, aimed at end-stage capitalism generally and particularly pointy towards those who believe change is possible from within. Dobler’s got no truck with this; he doesn’t want to just move the Overton window, he wants to explode it. His weapons of choice? The Tao, a guided meditation and a new story, because stories are the only places where change is possible.
Trainor’s world-building is strong and this thoughtful, provocative monologue both informs and unsettles. The writing sings: it’s full of phrases you want to chew over, the structure is satisfying, there’s plenty of emotion and it’s based on a set of truth-bombs that will make your hair curl. The entirely American lens won’t suit all Fringe audiences but there’s plenty to think about and enjoy here.
Assembly Rooms, until 30 August, 12.25pm.