Performed by Margaret Cameron and David Young
At The
March 31 to April 11, Tues, Wed & Sun 6.30pm, Thur – Sat 8pm
$25 - $12
Rating: ***
A collaboration between writer/director/performer Margaret Cameron and composer David Young, So You Think You Can Cow is a conceptual comedy exploring the relationship between artist and observer. It’s also extremely funny.
One by one, four audience members are escorted into the wings by Cameron while Young presents a surreal slide show of lifestyle tips and holiday snaps. When each participant returns – wearing a cow suit, dark glasses and headphones – they begin a surreal performance in response to instructions received through their headphones.
Another set of instructions, layered over an inventive and engaging soundscape, is played for the audience.
“Don’t think. This is culture! Say cow like wow!” are among the commands issued, as each ‘cow’ dances, preens and bellows instructions from the stage.
Inverting the traditional role of the audience, So You Think You Can Cow is a chaotic, madcap and hilarious performance, albeit one that’s dangerously reliant on the audience’s willingness to embrace to the playful spirit of the show.
An edited version of this review appeared in The Age Online on Thursday April 2, 2009.
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