The Intricate Art of Actually Caring

Downstage Theatre - Media Release
Released 08/04/2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Apathy about everything, except apathy
In the Intricate Art of Actually Caring, writer Eli Kent explores themes of masculinity, growing up, death and loss.

The Intricate Art of Actually Caring was one of the standout shows at the 2009 NZ Fringe Festival, winning Best in Theatre at the Fringe awards. With reviewer comments such as: “this production must be seen by a much larger audience” (Laurie Atkinson – The Dominion Post), The Intricate Art of Actually Caring was an obvious choice for selection for a return season as part of Pick of the Fringe.

The Intricate Art of Actually Caring is a new script by New Zealand playwright Eli Kent (2008 Chapman Tripp winner – Outstanding New Playwright of the Year for Rubber Turkey). A comedy about apathy, it tells the story of two young poets on a trip to Jerusalem to see the grave of our nation’s greatest poet. It explores James K. Baxter's prophecy of a country void of love, asking - has what he preached come to pass?

A two man show, the story is told through narration, poetry and original music to explore the themes of masculinity, growing up, death and loss. Kent: "It started with this poem I wrote and then transformed into this story about two guys who have grown up in a culture that doesn't offer them any sort of belief system to help them deal with things like loss and mortality. Baxter seems to represent a kind of forgotten New Zealand dream. He's the "Poet Hero". These young atheists seek him out in an attempt to find meaning in their lives". This aspect of the storyline takes an added dimension with the fact that Baxter really is writer Eli Kent’s Great Uncle.

The play was originally performed in Eli's Bedroom, turning away swathes of people for the 13 seat show. It'll be fascinating to see how the team transform Downstage into a boy’s bedroom, state highway one, Wanganui and Jerusalem.

The Intricate Art of Actually Caring is part of Pick of the Fringe, running from 29 April till 7 May. More information can be found on Downstage’s website www.downstage.co.nz or at the Facebook group “Pick of the Fringe”. Ticket Prices for each show range from $25 for a full price ticket to $20 for students and Fringe Addict Card holders; a season pass for all three shows is only $60 and can be used on different nights. For bookings call the Downstage box office on (04) 801 6946 or visit www.downstage.co.nz/book

ENDS

© Scoop Media