Known for showcasing innovative storytelling methods, the PuSh International Performing Arts Festival returns to Vancouver Jan 20 – Feb 4.
Screening as part of the festival at Waterfront Theatre is asses.masses, a uniquely crafted video game that explores themes of labor, technophobia, and collaborative revolution, designed specifically for live theatre experiences. The show traces the journey of a community of pixelated donkeys as they strive to reclaim their former farm and mining jobs amid rampant industrialization in their region.
Unfolding across 10 episodes and employing various game forms, the narrative prompts both the asses and the live audience to collaborate in addressing the escalating division within the community. This division revolves around those holding onto nostalgia for the ‘old ways,’ rejecting technology, and those advocating for technology as a means of adapting to the challenges of the present. This immersive and original work transforms gaming into a live performance where daring participants take turns at the controller, guiding the herd through a post-industrial society. With influences from Animal Farm, Pokémon, and Final Fantasy, asses.masses is as captivating in its form as it is in its content, offering an exciting experience that requires no prior gaming or donkey expertise.
Audience member interacting with the asses.masses gaming experience
Written by Vancouver based conceptual artists, Patrick Blenkarn and Milton Lim, who are known for their collaborative work in video games, participatory installations, and card games. Their artistic endeavours explore questions surrounding the social value of art, digital labor, and the political and artistic potential inherent in gaming. Additionally, they are the co-founders of videocan, a national video archive dedicated to Canadian performance documentation.
Offering a durational experience meant for continuous engagement similar to binge-watching a series, the show is 7.5 hours long with four intermissions. The narrative unfolds seamlessly, and missing sections of the show may result in overlooking significant parts of the storyline. While latecomers are permitted, arriving on time is strongly encouraged to ensure that none of the introductory elements are missed.
Tickets are called Pay Your Wage, where you choose a ticket price that is closest to your hourly wage, ranging from $18.59-$53.50.
As PuSh Festival continues to unfold its array of innovative and surprising performances, this show is truly a unique, original and entertaining experience – you won’t want to miss it! Get your tickets here.
All images are copyright to asses.masses.
