Words: Berlyn Lee 

5 Stars 

Underground, locked in a bunker, Grubby Little Mitts brings you a post-apocalyptic frenzy. 

Grubby Little Mitts’s 2023 show Hello! Hi! was hilarious and bizarre. Will Eyes Closed, Mouths Open hold up against the success of last year? The answer is yes.

The lights come up on a nearly monochromatic red set. Red clothing hangs on a rack, red filing cabinets hold props, red posters hang on a line, and when Sullivan & Rosie enter, they are also clad in red to match the setting. Even though the show hasn’t started, their outfits are stained from red liquid, making you wonder just what is in store for the audience. 

A hapless Prime Minister who is opting to believe it is opposite day instead of the reality that the world is facing an alien invasion. A cafe worker stalks a customer she believes is from out of this world. A six foot tall owl is out for human blood. A brother and sister bicker about their heart-attack stricken “Big Mum.” Two weather reporters enter a whirlwind office romance that leads to a truly insane realization. Audience participation includes throwing a cup labeled “dog piss.” Doesn’t seem like it’s all connected? It is! I promise! 

This unhinged hour ties together in a perfect bow, leaving the audience to wonder how many times these two have performed this crazed production while waiting out the end of the world. 

Grubby Little Mitts: Eyes Closed, Mouths Open 
Assembly George Square Studios – Studio Five 
16:35
Aug 21-26