Not really sure why John Robles gave their show the name it has but it worked on the five of us. We pottered along happily to see what GAY AND STUPID was all about.  And it ended up being quite a funny experience with a series of little pieces, often explained and introduced first, that showed considerable work in the crafting.  Robles also had a range of delivery that was audience focused and showcased Robles’ improv skills.

Robles has had success in TheatreSports and their work last night in the very close up venue being used at The Factory had the assurance of someone who has a bedrock of good performance skills and an evident love of entertaining.  Robles’ stand-up work is fun and their way of asking questions is engaging “Do you like the flu?” asks their pink netball skirted character in a Russian mode ?

Robles doesn’t make a habit of assuming broad characters instead they only slightly morph from the main game and since we enjoy and respond to that initial character, who is lovely and lively in interactions before the show, there is a comfortability here. I particularly enjoyed the old dame who was smokin’ and ballsy. But GAY AND STUPID, (still don’t get the name!) is not based solely on Robles stepping out of themself.  There is lots of variety here also.

There are songs and movement and some confronting-free audience involvement. Robles interactions with the audience are responsive and their use of the game show format owes much to their inherent charisma as a performer. Which is substantial. There are lots of times during the show where Robles tells us that we should fear not because they are right there with us.  And we do feel safe in those hands because the show demonstrates a likeable competence which takes it from the stand-up formula.

What I enjoyed most was the movement work, which was impressive and highlighted Robles’ preparation and hard work in some excellent sequences. The singing too was lovely, a terrible sound mix as usual in this venue, but we got the idea. Their song to an ex lover was was absorbing and really comic in concept.

But for me, the sequence that was most indicative of Robles potential was ‘In the Box’. It was created with care, splendidly rehearsed and performed with impeccable timing and delivery. The use of stillness and the mastery of state change was very enjoyable.
Robles also excelled at creating comic pathos in places, again their physical work being on display.

Overall it was a humorous show of personality and care from a queer artist who draws a diverse and mixed crowd.  Still not sure about the name of the show though.  GAY AND STUPID [Facebook Event] has now finished its run at the Sydney Fringe.