 OUT OF WOODSTOCK
August 15-25 - Underbelly, Cowgate Out of Woodstock is a frenzied one-person show by playwright Tom Foreman, portraying one young man's tumultuous journey through the chaotic Woodstock '99 music festival. Set against the backdrop of the notorious event, the play captures the raw intensity and disillusionment of a generation, soundtracked by Limp Bizkit. Guy, reeling from heartbreak, seeks solace in the music and debauchery that defined the festival where he’s meant to escort his young sister. Out of Woodstock begins on a lively note, capturing the electric atmosphere of the festival. The play draws the audience into Guy’s initial thrill of freedom as he immerses himself in the music, the crowd, and the hedonistic vibe that defines the event. However, what begins as an escape quickly unravels into a harrowing descent, brilliantly portrayed by Max Beken, into a world marred by moral decay, substance abuse, and unchecked aggression. The play effectively channels the disarray of the festival itself, portraying a world where boundaries blur and societal norms crumble. The play's exploration of sexual violence at Woodstock '99 is particularly poignant and disturbing. The real-life festival was infamous not only for its logistical failures and violent riots but also for the widespread reports of sexual assault and harassment. Out of Woodstock confronts this dark aspect of the event, using it as a critical lens to examine Guy’s moral shortcomings. While Guy is not a rapist, his inaction and ignorance regarding the harassment his fifteen-year-old sister faces, as well as his disturbingly quick dismissal of his friend's admission of rape, serve as stark reminders of the bystander effect and the culture of silence that often surrounds sexual violence. Despite recognising the vile nature of his friend's actions, Guy's response highlights the troubling ease with which such incidents can be overlooked or minimised. Guy’s flawed response offers a compelling critique of the toxic masculinity and apathy pervasive at Woodstock '99. In doing so, it provides a space for reflection and dialogue, making it not just a story about one man's downfall but a broader commentary on the societal failures that allow such tragedies to occur. 4/5 Lee Hutchison |
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