Ode to Joy @ Summerhall
Ode to Joy is an unapologetic exploration of queer subculture, with nuanced performances and a filthy-gorgeous soundtrack
A DJ plays dirty techno as the audience take their seats around a black dancefloor; cold light casts shadows across white walls. Even before it begins, Ode to Joy immerses the audience in its world.
Gordon (Brian Evans) lives an unadventurous life working as a lawyer for the Scottish government, his days spent pouring over his Brexit impact study. Gordon's secret desires for group sex and all the drugs he's read about look set to become a reality when he meets Cumpig (Sean Connor) and his resplendent, diva-ish husband Manpussy (Marc MacKinnon) at a sex party. Gordon gets cold feet and runs away – but later, he finds Cumpig's drugs, which set him on a journey of sleazy self-discovery, culminating in an enormous techno sex party in Berlin.
The atmospheric set of Ode to Joy is further enhanced by Simonotron's filthy-gorgeous soundtrack. Scenes which illustrate the experience of party drugs are brilliantly performed – particularly a slow-motion scene after Cumpig finds some 'G'. The cast offer nuance to their characters – Gordon is not merely a dull caricature, but he is confused about his identity and place in the world. Manpussy breaks the mould of the bro-ey sportswear gay so prevalent in the play, but it's Sean Connor's portrayal of Cumpig that is most memorable – the manic drug-fiend in tiny orange shorts, waxing lyrical about holes, but with deep sensitivity at his core.
A 'Glossary of Gay' with definitions of words such as 'PrEP' and 'Tina' is handed out before the show, but that's as much concession as is made to straight audiences. The play is unapologetic and un-sensationalist in its exploration of queer subculture. It's hilarious and touching, showing the intensity of bonds that can exist during a weekend of wild abandon. Even if you have no desire to go to the nasty pig party, Ode to Joy may leave you questioning your priorities long after its hour is up.
Ode to Joy (How Gordon got to go to the nasty pig party), Summerhall (Demonstration Room), until 28 Aug (not 22), 6.20pm, £12-14