BSR_S10E05 - Spank Bank Time Machine - John Michael
In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with performance artist John Michael about his work, particularly his production 'Spank Bank Time Machine.' They discuss the themes of grief, loss, and the importance of addressing societal issues such as addiction and mental health through art. John Michael shares his personal experiences and the impact of his performances on audiences, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in the face of tragedy. The conversation also touches on the role of audience participation and the significance of Narcan in combating the overdose epidemic. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the transformative power of art and the responsibility of artists to engage with pressing social issues.
Chapters
* 00:00 Introduction to the Philly Fringe Festival and John Michael's Work
* 02:27 The Inspiration Behind 'Spank Bank Time Machine'
* 05:12 Exploring Identity and the Role of Art in Healing
* 08:12 The Importance of Addressing Difficult Topics in Art
* 10:49 Navigating the Challenges of Performance Art
* 13:39 The Role of Narcan in the Community and Its Stigma
* 16:01 The Impact of Overdose Epidemic on Society
* 18:29 The Personal Connection to the Overdose Crisis
* 21:23 The Role of Artists in Addressing Social Issues
* 24:12 The Mechanics of Performance and Audience Engagement
* 26:54 Reflections on the First Performance and Artistic Growth
* 29:38 The Journey of 'Spank Bank Time Machine' and Its Evolution
* 32:43 Engaging the Audience with Narcan
* 35:39 Embracing the Unwanted in Performance
* 37:19 The Bystander Effect and Audience Participation
* 39:32 The Influence of Taylor Mac
* 41:47 Theater's Role in Addressing Loneliness
* 44:37 The Power of Audience Participation
* 46:03 Navigating the Theater Landscape
* 47:53 Sex Positivity and Public Health Advocacy
* 50:12 The Impact of Sharing Names
* 52:59 Funding and Support for Artistic Work
Spank Bank Time Machine
Queer Fantasia Time Travel Adventure with trauma clown John Michael - it's Angels in America meets Snakes on a Plane, but with DRUGS! Time travel with John Michael and receive free lifesaving NARCAN time machines: learn how to go back in time after an overdose.
“A celebration of life, ... Big belly laughs.... Art never dies!” ★★★★★ —Free Press
“It’s fun, raunchy, outrageous, touching, and incredible. Easily my favorite show at the entire festival.” —UMFM
"A whirlwind of a journey delivered at a breakneck pace — full of gay sex, drugs, and charismatic performer John Michael in a mankini. A human example of the cost of the opioid epidemic.” —Orlando Sentinel
“Wild, Raw, and quite Moving. Not everyone attending Fringe may be ready for Spank Bank Time Machine” —The League of Cincinnati Theatres
"John Michael hits the stage like a popper-powered hurricane... If only one life is saved by his harrowing audience-participation Narcan demonstration, this carefully crafted yet bravely unbound show was worth it." —Orlando Weekly
**We will have leftover NARCAN KITS, and if you want more to proliferate, please text me at 773-263-9284. Additionally, consider getting involved with Prevention Point Philadelphia
MESSAGE FRON JOHN MICHAEL:
As a professional artist, I believe it's important to talk finances, and at this moment, the show is making $500, which is 50% of the costs to be here. Other Ways you can support my work:
Contribution to my venmo link here.
Tax-deductible contributions can be found here
Buy a Narcan Time Machine t-shirt at this link here
A personal introduction to Universities, health organizations, or philanthropists who might want to book or support the young adult play. Check out this trailer for the young adult play here. Please reach out to me for copy/more information about the show's impact individually for you to forward to interested parties.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://phillyfringe.org/events/spank-bank-time-machine/
