Power Struggle is a new concept, a new kind of comedy, and Nik Rabinowitz as you’ve never seen him before. Yes it’s funny, yes it’s thoughtful but it also has one thing Nik’s shows usually don’t have - a point.
Throughout human history we’ve been on a constant quest for power, for freedom, for control, for more, for better. But every time we seem to find a solution to our problems, we create our next problem. Here we are in 2016, and we’ve never had it so good. Paradoxically, it feels as though it’s never been worse. So what’s the solution? Well, that’s the problem. A problem this show attempts to tackle. Do we have solutions? Maybe. Are we going to solve the world’s energy crisis through the combined arts of theatre and comedy? Probably not. But it’s worth a shot.
The production doesn’t just talk about innovation; it runs on it: half the show is powered by renewable energy. “In essence it’s designed to be a sustainability consciousness shifter,” says Rabinowitz. “We’d like to create an experience that leaves people feeling good, but also deliver a strong message to keep them thinking once they leave. Predictably what they’ll be thinking once they leave is ‘How can I drive off without paying the car guard?’ but maybe after that they might wonder about how to funnel grey water into the sprinkler system.”
Power Struggle is the hottest (solar powered) ticket in town, whether you’re an eco-warrior or just an eco-worrier. Or, like most of us, you don’t have a clue what’s going on, and just want to know that the kids are going to be all right.
Even if you think global warming is a just a fancy name for 'summer', you’ll be doing your bit for the ‘sustainability movement’ just by being there. Want to do more? Then sign up for Power Struggle’s methane powered foot-pedal lights, where members of the audience get to participate in the actual running of the production… well maybe…
Power Struggle premieres at the Baxter Theatre, Cape Town and runs from 29 March to 16 April, 2016. Tickets R120 (previews) to R195, via Computicket or 0861 915 800. Age restriction PG14. For more info, and announcement of future national dates visit www.powerstruggle.info.
