REVIEW: GAVIN CRAWFORD SHOWS US WHAT BEING “FULLY COMMITTED” IS ALL ABOUT…

Mar 29

One actor. 35+ characters. 90 minutes. The premise is familiar for most in the arts industry: work a thankless job being yelled at and manipulated by people who aren’t used to hearing the word “no” and coerced into doing tasks that fall under “other duties as assigned.” If any of that resonates, you will immediately understand what director Steven Gallagher and the brilliant performance from Gavin Crawford expertly convey through this gauntlet of non-stop calls, character switches and hints of sweet comeuppance in Becky Mode’s comedic gem Fully Committed.

Gavin Crawford commands the stage as Sam, a struggling actor in New York City who works at a reservation call centre for a bougie and highly demanded restaurant. While we can envision the classy restaurant above, the audience only sees the dingey and isolated “office” space where Sam spends his day. The space, designed by Michael Gianfresco, is well-utilized for Crawford’s manic energy as he leaps from a basic desk and rolling chair to a wall where the Wi-Fi signal almost always works to the looming red telephone that you just know means trouble from up top.

From the moment Crawford trapses down the winding metal staircase, the phone is ringing and each time he answers, a new character is introduced. Each character is distinctive in voice, recognizable in personality and Crawford’s increasing exasperation in being the only staff member handling it all, as well as the demands of the obnoxious head chef, overwhelmed host and a shocking lack of bussing staff, is equal parts hilarious and relatable. Crawford’s voice talents showcase fully realized characters and the ease in which Crawford switches between the barrage of characters during the show is some of the most impressive work seen on any stage in Hamilton. How he manages this entire show without missing a beat will always stand out as a true masterclass of solo storytelling and character development. Crawford’s efforts here prove, beyond any doubt, what being “fully committed” is all about.

Placed perfectly between the emotional gut-punch that was Casey & Diana and the upcoming pop-rock musical Waitress, Fully Committed is a delightful and hilarious inside look at the world of call-centre staff which will hopefully encourage people everywhere to consider how they treat whoever is on the other end of the line. Fully commit to getting your tickets. Don’t miss it.

FULLY COMMITTED TICKETS