32/0: A Solo Performance Exploration of Vulnerability, Masculinity, and Hunger for Fun

Abstract

University of Washington Abstract 32/0: A Solo Performance Exploration of Vulnerability, Masculinity, and the Hunger for FunJerik Fernandez Chair of the Supervisory Committee:Jeffrey Fracé School of Drama 32/0 is a solo performance exploring vulnerability, masculinity, and the reconnection to my inner child-like fun through clown, dance, and melodrama. Set in the current day, the character of The Cool warns the audience of an impending enemy, The Sun. Through slander, coercion, and interrogation of The Sun, The Cool is reminded of the beauty The Sun used to provide. In the end, he surrenders to The Sun and is reunited with his child-like playfulness once again. Inspired by American depictions of cool, World Wrestling Entertainment, hip hop, and 90s pop music, the piece asks the audience to check back in with their inner child and rediscover their whimsy.