He draws inspiration from a string of real-life scenarios his imaginary politician friends encourage him into that are more-so upsetting than funny. These scenarios told in Act 1 reveal his hidden beliefs that humans are inherently not good which in Act 2 leads him to make a statement on his show about how artificial intelligence is leading to the end of humanity as we know it. Surely, Imaginary Friends sounds quite complicated and a little confusing to you based on the above and I wish I could say that it wasn’t.
However, the unfortunate reality is that the series of scenarios told throughout the first act of the show did not flow, seemly resulting in a storyline that was difficult to follow during the first act. The second act however, seemingly cleared all confusion and by the end the gut-wrenching theme of the show was made abundantly clear, leaving one introspective about and hopeful for life and humanity.
This is Daniel Bye’s first solo show in seven years but one would never suspect it. His performance was spellbinding, leaving one hanging onto every word spoken. Additionally, the images he painted were so vivid that one felt that they were in the location he was speaking about. This was especially helpful as the set design was simply a foldable chair placed centre stage next to a table with small props – like a costa cup and an empty crisps package.
The lighting and sound design really elevated the performance. Katherine Williams, the lighting designer, had a permanent spotlight following Bye throughout the performance. The spotlight was supported with red and blue lighting which created four shadows, the shadows becoming more prominent when Daniel was speaking to his imaginary friends. Blue lighting was most predominantly used when Dan was showing vulnerability and red used when he was emphasising a point he was making or when he was getting angry. Additionally, Ziad Jabero’s sound design was crucial to setting the mood as the music appropriately became more tense, light-hearted or ominous when needed.
If you are a fan of satire, dark comedy, heavy political references and vivid visual imagery, go see this show while it is touring, but note, the show covers several very dark topics such as grief, suicide and sexual harassment.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Imaginary Friends played at the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse on March 22nd, & is touring the U.K. until June 12th
