LORENZO

Ben Targét was nominated for Best Newcomer at the 2012 Edinburgh Comedy Awards and set on the path to becoming a critically acclaimed performance artist. Eight years later, he gave it all up to become the live-in carer for his uncle, Lorenzo Wong, and created the show LORENZO, which confronts the messiness of ageing and dying through storytelling, servitude to the audience, and live carpentry. This book is the full script of the show, with illustrations by Targét himself, and was premiered at the 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where it received a Fringe First Award.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 88 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

When Ben Targét was nominated for Best Newcomer at the 2012 Edinburgh Comedy Awards, he embarked on a remarkable journey that would lead him to become a highly acclaimed and multi-award-winning performance artist. However, eight years later, in the midst of a global pandemic, Targét made a profound decision to abandon his artistic pursuits and take on the role of a live-in carer for his uncle, Lorenzo Wong. Lorenzo Wong was an irascible octogenarian prankster, a character who brought laughter and joy into the lives of those around him.

LORENZO is a captivating theatrical production that explores the complexities of aging and dying through the medium of storytelling, audience servitude, and live carpentry. This unique blend of artistic elements has not been seen on the world stage since the time of Nazareth circa 30AD. This book is the complete script of LORENZO, featuring illustrations by Targét himself. Directed by Adam Brace, the show premiered at Summerhall, Edinburgh, during the 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where it received a Fringe First Award. Subsequently, it transferred to Soho Theatre, London, where it continued to captivate audiences.

LORENZO delves into the lives of two individuals, Ben Targét and Lorenzo Wong, as they navigate the challenges and joys of aging together. Targét, a talented performer, gives up his successful career to care for his uncle, who is facing health issues. Through their interactions, the show explores themes of love, loss, resilience, and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we care about.

The live carpentry aspect of LORENZO adds an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the production. Targét, a skilled carpenter, constructs a stage set that serves as a metaphor for the aging process and the challenges that come with it. The set is intricately designed, with each piece representing a different stage of life. The audience is invited to explore the set and interact with it, creating a sense of connection and empathy with the characters.

The storytelling in LORENZO is powerful and poignant, with Targét's performance capturing the essence of his uncle's character. Lorenzo Wong is a larger-than-life figure, with a mischievous spirit and a penchant for practical jokes. Targét's portrayal of him is both humorous and heartfelt, allowing the audience to see the vulnerability and complexity of the character.

The audience servitude element of LORENZO is also noteworthy. Targét interacts with the audience throughout the show, engaging them in conversations and asking for their input. This creates a sense of participation and connection between the performer and the audience, making the experience more immersive and memorable.

LORENZO is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of art to connect with audiences on a deep level. It challenges societal norms and stereotypes about aging and dying, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate view of these life stages. The show's message is universal, resonating with people of all ages and backgrounds.

In conclusion, LORENZO is a remarkable theatrical production that combines storytelling, audience servitude, and live carpentry to explore the complexities of aging and dying. Directed by Adam Brace, the show premiered at the 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe and received critical acclaim. The script is a testament to Targét's talent as a performer and his commitment to his uncle's care. The live carpentry aspect adds an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the production, creating a sense of connection and empathy with the audience. LORENZO's message is powerful and poignant, challenging societal norms and promoting a more inclusive and compassionate view of aging and dying. It is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the power of art to inspire and transform.

Weight: 106g
Dimension: 127 x 198 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839042928