How can one truly identify as an artist? Have the choices made throughout life been the right ones? These thought-provoking inquiries are especially relevant for those like Joz Norris, who have spent years operating on the outskirts of unconventional comedy, away from mainstream recognition. In his latest innovative production, titled “You Wait. Time Passes,” Norris, donning a sweatband emblazoned with the word “Artist,” tackles these issues with a light-hearted touch. The performance delves into the decision to create wildly absurd art that embodies its own silliness.
While I found the work to be quite admirable, I did not find every moment enjoyable. The show’s eccentricity felt somewhat overwhelming at times, as Norris adopts the persona of a chaotic, self-involved guru, offering life lessons leading up to what he calls “the grand unveiling of my life’s work,” presented in a box on a pedestal at the back of the stage. A seat is notably reserved for his estranged wife, hinting at unresolved tensions. Throughout the performance, we learn about their separation and gain insight into Norris’s perceived shortcomings as a family man. Audiences are treated to glimpses of his diverse career—spanning comedy, acting, and magic—and a humorous segment about his quest to become Google’s top Joz. A later exchange with his erratic AI girlfriend showcases a playful and comedic back-and-forth reminiscent of the style of the late Rik Mayall.
The most intriguing aspect of the show lies in its exploration of profound themes surrounding the meaning, or lack thereof, in the lives of niche creatives. Are eccentric artists truly unconventional, or are they simply revealing an alternative way of existing? This question might resonate more deeply if some of Norris’s eccentricities didn’t occasionally seem contrived, such as a later scene involving a rather unengaging “Do you want to fart into this Hoover?” moment. Nevertheless, even at its most bizarre, the production—anchored by clever humor, intricate philosophical musings, and a vibrant performance—serves as a compelling argument for the value of experimental art in a conformist, capitalistic society.
This performance is scheduled to take place at the Lowry in Salford on April 24, followed by a tour.
