Joseph Morpurgo's 'Highlander 70' is a delightful and whimsical take on the classic American high school experience, with a unique twist. The show is a one-man comic play that draws from an old American high school yearbook, creating a captivating and nostalgic journey through the eyes of a dorky protagonist, David Moon. Morpurgo's genius lies in his ability to transform mundane high school cliches into something extraordinary and entertaining.
What makes 'Highlander 70' particularly fascinating is the way Morpurgo uses the yearbook as a source material. He scours through the pages, finding tiny details and incongruities that become the foundation for his hilarious and poignant storytelling. From curious facial expressions to odd diagrams, these seemingly insignificant elements become the building blocks of his comedic genius. The show is a testament to the idea that sometimes the most mundane things can be the most amusing.
The narrative follows David Moon's last day at school, where he must navigate assembly, the big game, and graduation. But Morpurgo adds a layer of complexity by introducing a quest to recover David's missing diary, which holds the key to a mortifying secret about his crush, Beth. The plot twists and turns as David encounters obstacles, including a martinet principal, a bully named Roscoe Peltz, and a dance-hall full of intoxicated teens. The frenetic energy on stage, accompanied by DIY animation and voiceovers on an upstage screen, adds to the show's charm and keeps the audience engaged.
One of the most impressive aspects of 'Highlander 70' is Morpurgo's ability to balance humor and emotion. The show is simple yet stirring, and Morpurgo's storytelling skills are on full display. He knows when to push the pace and when to slow down, creating a sense of poignancy and nostalgia. The 'where are they now?' sequence at the end is a brilliant touch, adding a layer of depth to the story.
However, it's worth noting that the show does have a few lulls, including an audience participation sequence that might not be as effective as the rest of the performance. Nonetheless, the highs are so high that they make up for any minor dips. The West Side Story-inspired teenage bully dance number is a standout moment, showcasing Morpurgo's creativity and talent for transforming familiar concepts into something fresh and exciting.
In my opinion, 'Highlander 70' is a must-see for anyone who wants to experience a unique and entertaining take on the high school experience. Morpurgo's use of a seemingly random artifact from the past to create something meaningful and funny is a testament to his skill as a storyteller. The show is a perfect blend of humor, nostalgia, and creativity, making it a memorable and enjoyable experience for all audiences.
