Adelaide Fringe

Fringe Review: Scarred for Life

Josh Belperio is a writer, performer and multidisciplinary musical artist, well known in Adelaide. Having survived a serious cycling accident, he has used this terrifying episode to create a cabaret show and share how being near to death has brought about a fresh perspective on life.

Presented by Under the Microscope
Reviewed 23rd February 2017

Josh Belperio is a writer, performer and multidisciplinary musical artist, well known in Adelaide. Having survived a serious cycling accident, he has used this terrifying episode to create a cabaret show and share how being near to death has brought about a fresh perspective on life.

There is rawness and honesty in Belperio’s musicality that is a delight to experience as an audience member. Titled Scarred for Life, whilst the back story is obviously the tale of his accident and recovery, it is also a love story and an insight into human vulnerability and how on our darkest days there is a strength that comes from relationships that we can only receive if we open ourselves to accept it.

Belperio takes us on an emotional journey with sensitivity and humour. The songs are catchy, funny and well executed. Although singing is not his primary skill,  his voice is just right for this piece with the imperfections adding to the openness and intimacy created. As someone who has also been involved in a serious accident, I could relate directly to the post traumatic psychological effects that even some years later, regularly intrude into everyday moments and that is the key to the success of this show. We can all relate on some level. We ride the waves of sensation with each song penned by Belperio. From the humorous I Stuffed Up and Watching me Pee in a Bottle  to the poignant battle to be Fine in a less than fine environment and ultimately to Get Back on Your Bike the songs are truthful, relateable and highly entertaining.

Cheesy? Unashamedly so – who doesn’t need a bit of cheese in their life! Not only did I leave feeling like a friend of the performer, his partner and his mother but I also feel invested in Belperio’s story and look forward to the next instalment in his life, which I have no doubt will include great things.

Reviewed by Trish Francis

Rating out of 5: 4.5

Venue:  The Lab at Queens Theatre
Season:  February 23rd – March 4th
Duration:  60 minutes
Tickets:  $28/$25
Bookings: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/scarred-for-life-af2018

https://www.adelaidefringe.com.au

 

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