Kitchener-based company Informal Upright take over The Hideout at College and Bathurst with Ciarán Myers' new two hander, Hamburger. Staged in the bar (with drinks and food available during the show!) the play shares the story of two coworkers as they grow in their careers and as people, but always in some relationship to one another. It explores themes of workplace romance (and the propriety or welcome of advances) along with aspirations and the politics of working in a kitchen while building a career as a young female.
Although it is a mainly light story, there is a darkness to the play as we see hints of frustrations for the characters, specifically Lib (subtly and intelligently performed by Mina James). Zach Parsons plays Arie admirably, particularly knowing that he joined the cast as a replacement only a few days before this preview.
The use of the space is interesting, if not always effective, and the pacing of the show doesn't do the best to show off the script through the build and release of tension, however some of this is likely due to the last minute cast change, thus not to be judged as a tick against them. All in all, an interesting story, well performed, and under some dire circumstances. Definitely worth putting Hamburger on your list.
