Magic Unicorn Island - Slick, Funny, Important

I had heard about this show earlier on the tour, that Fringe artists were describing it unfailingly (and in rather a cult-like fashion) as “life changing”. Although I was unfamiliar with the reputation of playwright/star Jayson McDonald, I had high expectations for “Magic Unicorn Island”… and I was not disappointed.

Picture-perfect physical theatre opens the show; before your eyes the universe is created, mankind evolves, and one very important fact is asserted: that there has been NO time in human history where war was not present. This theme is built upon until we reach the surprising central narrative of, as the blurb advises, The United Empire declaring war upon its own children.

This is political theatre, but it is not pushing a clichéd message, it is not awkward, nor is it dogmatic. Instead it is accessible, engaging, and astute. There are a multitude of quotable moments, and complex concepts are artfully handled. Sharp observations are so gently delivered you might miss their cut (“democracy… it’s important for everyone to feel included”). You are in the hands of a skilled performer, who easily evokes keywords like ‘slick’, ‘arresting’, ‘talented’, ‘clever’, and ‘funny’. Not only is the narrative of woven scenes sharply written, but the bevvy of characters are consistently snapped into, the seamless lighting enhances the story, and McDonald’s sound effects and mime are humorously spot on. At the conclusion of the performance, the avid applause completely prevented McDonald from speaking.

There are so many important messages packed into these 50 minutes, and while I wouldn’t say it was “life changing”, I will say that if you want to see a talent of professional theatre calibre armed with a superb script dealing with important world issues: this is the show to watch.
 

Performances still to come: Sept 7, 8, 10, 12, and 13, at Revue Stage on Granville Island.