Writer: Georgina Duncan
Co-creators: Georgina Duncan, Colm Gleeson and Will Bishop
Critically acclaimed collaborators Georgina Duncan, Colm Gleeson and Will Bishop reunite to stage another surefire hit. Playing sporadically at Riverside Studios this month, ASBO BOZO is a tragic comedy which celebrates the messy limits of human kindness.
Penned and performed by Duncan, this solo show unpacks an emotionally intense 48 hours within the gruelling routine of an Antisocial Behaviour Officer. After dedicating every other day of her life to the residents of a small town in Wigan, Duncan’s protagonist can’t wait to celebrate turning 30 and finally enjoy a moment in the limelight. Unfortunately, her excitement is short-lived when everyone else seems to have either forgotten or is too busy to invest in her big day.
The production is very well-paced, capturing the effortful grind of a stressful work day without itself dragging. Duncan’s world-building is effective, crafting a detailed ensemble of characters through multi-roling, recorded dialogue and intelligently written one-sided conversations.
As a performer, Duncan’s talent and presence are evident from the outset, quickly putting the audience at ease as it relaxes into her narrative hands. Blessed with expert dry comedy skills, Duncan brilliantly embodies the trials and tribulations of everyday living in a way that feels woefully relatable but endlessly entertaining.
As with most storytelling structures, particularly that of a solo show, ASBO BOZO strips back its humour as the protagonist hurtles towards their lowest point. The way Duncan approaches this impending doom, following the inevitable trope of an adrenaline-fuelled club night, is truly devastating. As a writer and performer she edges the audience, building agonising anticipation before the penny drops and the harrowing reality of her profession is laid bare.
In this moment, Duncan’s displays of distress are palpable, painful and deeply affecting. She perfectly captures the agony of someone trying their best to hold on, whilst having nothing left to give. Her reluctant tears are impressive, for sure, but it is her intense commitment to not fully breaking that is difficult to shake afterwards.
ASBO BOZO is a terrific example of a one-person show done right. Brilliantly witty, emotionally impactful and chillingly thought-provoking; Duncan’s writing and performance are simply stunning.
Runs until 29 March 2025
The Reviews Hub Score
Simply stunning
