Much Stuff

Presented by a queer and neuro-divergent production team, Much Stuff is a delightfully awkward romance, and celebration of female relationships amid a world that is not made for the neuro-divergent. Dealing with some big issues, the warmth of the performers makes this an enjoyable experience.

Blake and Charlie are best friends, who may well become more than that. Though both are dealing with trauma and the challenges of living in a world that doesn’t make sense, we are willing them to make a greater connection as they come to terms with themselves and the world.

Performers Gabrielle Wilson (actress Blake) and Morgan Dukes (playwright Charlie) have such a wonderful onstage relationship and seem to connect so well to the characters, that it feels like it was written for them (which it wasn’t). This non-linear relationship is beautifully drawn and has wonderful depth with characters that feel both genuine and complex.

The show, playing in the intimate studio space, is set on a “dangerous cliff face” created by designer William Gammel, which is far more complex than it first appears, opening to reveal a treasure trove of items and other scenic elements.  Much Stuff is emotively lit by a design from Amber Lorenzi.

Much Stuff is warm, relatable, sad but sassy and enjoyable to watch. Just a little off kilter, it has some great elements of surprise and ultimately celebrates both love and difference.

Kimberley Shaw