The ASMR or Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response craze may have waned but the utterly endearing Jessica Stanley injects perfect social commentary and humour into the format.
JSMR takes the audience on a journey through when and how ASMR may occur and the effect and uses it has on the body.
The work is designed to relax and soothe and it does just that – that is until the insanely witty dialogue takes over, leaving audiences with little choice but to howl with laughter.
Each vignette is designed to ease the audience into a deep state of relaxation – the soft sounds and voice echoing through the ears and tingling the spine. However, Stanley’s performance is so damn captivating that it is hard to not engage.
Slowly a narrative appears – clearly disguised in the work, the audience learns of Stanley’s phobias, traumatic life events and triggering sounds that unravel their psyche. More and more the hidden stories and beaten down emotions bubble to the surface.
Stanley is a flawless performer and writer, creating a work that is equally funny as it is confronting and thought provoking. They are an effortless performer, completely immersed in each character and moment, delivering the dialogue and content with all the talent of a consummate artist.
JSMR is a highly recommended and important work – perfectly suited for a digital fringe while still giving audiences something unexpected and needed.
JSMR: An ASMR & Storytelling Experience
Melbourne Fringe Digital On Demand
Season continues to 17 October 2021
Information and Bookings: www.melbournefringe.com.au
Image: Jessica Stanley (supplied)
Review: Gavin Roach