Burnout Paradise

Burnout Paradise is a fantastic representation of how silly it feels to try to get everything one wants to get done when there are certain things that take longer to get done than others.

In a daring exploration of life's essential facets, the theatre performance Burnout Paradise pushes the boundaries of physical endurance and multitasking prowess. From the moment the lights dim and four figures turn on their designated treadmills—each labeled "Survival," "Admin," "Performance," and "Leisure"—the audience is thrust into a whirlwind of simultaneous actions and meticulous timing.

From the outset, the stakes are clear: within 40 minutes, each performer must rotate through four pivotal roles, spending a mere 10 minutes at a time to cook a three-course meal (to be served to eager spectators), complete a grant application, perform a captivating show, and engage in a series of relaxation activities—all while striving to exceed their group running distances. Failure to complete any task within the allocated time would warrant a refund to the expectant audience, underscoring the high-wire act that unfolds before them.

The treadmill itself becomes a metaphorical stage where life's disparate demands converge, demanding both physical stamina and mental acuity from its participants. Burnout Paradise transcends mere spectacle; it invites introspection into the absurdity and necessity of modern existence. As performers pivot between the demands of survival, bureaucracy, entertainment, and leisure, they invite viewers to contemplate their own juggling acts in everyday life. This interactive narrative not only entertains but also prompts a deeper consideration of the relentless pace and varied expectations inherent in contemporary society. 

However, neither the theme or the mood of the show is one of sadness or despair. Rather, they show that often people try to find a difficult balance between life and work, and that is not always possible without help from friends. Which is where the audience comes in. The audience acts as the friend or help people need when everything is getting to be too much. From helping find good responses to the grant application, to helping the person at survival make an edible meal, to helping the person at leisure complete all their tasks, the audience was fundamental to getting all of the tasks done.

Overall, Burnout Paradise was an unpredictable spectacle brought together by the actors on the treadmills, Claire Bird, William Strom, Dominic Weintraub, and Hugo Williams, and the lovely and burnt-out Laura Aldous. The show was funny, chaotic, and a little bit dangerous, and it was fantastic. If interested in helping the actors avoid burnout, one should sit in the front row, where one will have the best view of everything going on and be able to help each person complete their tasks. 

Isabella Nocetti

Photographer: Patrick Boland