Amsterdam, known for its vibrant arts scene, recently witnessed the gripping performance of “People Are Awful” at Theater Bellevue. Over two nights, audiences were captivated by the raw and compelling storytelling brought to life on stage.

Originally developed for the Amsterdam Fringe in 2022, “People Are Awful” has undergone a remarkable evolution over the past two years. Joseph Kearney, an actor and writer, collaborated with director Brandon Oelofse to explore various storytelling conventions, ranging from the absurd—like sock puppets and reality TV. Through these unconventional methods, they conveyed intensely personal narratives about Joseph’s experiences.

The play is a personal exploration of Kearney’s own life, touching on themes of sex addiction, grief, substance abuse, and self-destructive behaviors. However, what sets “People Are Awful” apart is its unique blend of reality and fantasy.

The result was a mesmerizing hour-long journey that left audiences both shaken and inspired. The show’s success at the Amsterdam Fringe in 2022, where it sold out and won the Next Best Fringe Award, paved the way for its triumphant return to Theater Bellevue in April 2024.

Now, as “People Are Awful” continues its journey, it has been pared down to its essentials, fitting into just two suitcases for a touring production. Yet, despite its minimalist approach, the impact of the storytelling remains undiminished. Set in the intimate black box space of de Klein Zaal at Theatre Bellevue, the performance is part of a larger storytelling festival, showcasing the power of spoken word and poetry in collaboration with Mezrab Amsterdam.

People Are Awful will do its final performances at the Queer Arts Festival in Den Bosch’s Verkade Fabriek 7-9 June 2024. For more information and tickets visit the festival website.