Big Stuff is a hilarious, heartfelt, and entertaining night at the theatre. Performed by husband-and-wife comedy duo, Matt Baram and Naomi Snieckus, the show explores the reasons we accumulate objects we cannot let go. The show is a fun and moving journey into the memories we attach (or don’t) with our stuff. The audience participates in this experience too, so be prepared!
The story of Big Stuff revolves around Mr. Baram and Ms. Snieckus arguing, debating, and compromising over a huge haul of household items they are transporting from Los Angeles back to Canada. Some of the stuff comes from deceased family members, some were gathered by the couple during their years together. However, the pile has gotten so huge, Mr. Baram, who considers himself pragmatic, wants to do a big purge of the big stuff. But Ms. Snieckus, who is much more sentimental, defends each item to keep. Still, do they really need nine toasters?
The couple are charming, engaging, and relatable. Before the show starts, they ask the audience to write anonymously on a piece of paper (already provided at their seats) about a personal item that is important to them. A few times during the show, the couple will randomly draw a paper and ask that person the significance of their treasured possession. This builds the connection with the audience, asking the questions on the emotional significance of objects. Is an object just an object or is it something more? Do they hold cherished memories? Or do they just take up space and gather dust? Are you a sentimental or practical person? At what point does it go too far? Mr. Baram and Ms. Snieckus explore these questions with lots of humour, empathy, and the joy that comes with a life shared with a loved one.
The set is a bit overwhelming with stacks of cardboard moving boxes, interspersed with items that are important to the couple. That includes the many toasters. The set gives a big picture of how we are housed by memories. But is it too much? Or not enough?
What do you do with stuff accumulated over the years, including items inherited from family? Is letting go part of the grieving process? Or is it a way to hold on to their memories? Perhaps, just saying their names out loud is enough.
Photo credit: Dahlia Katz
Big Stuff. Written by Matt Baram & Naomi Snieckus. Directed by Kat Sandler. Show continues until September 21, at Segal Centre, 5170 Chemin de la Côte-Ste-Catherine, Montreal. Call the box office 514-739-7944 or go to www.segalcentre.org .
