Leaves audiences quite literally howling with laughter in a night of well-meaning and hilariously constructed advice on how to land a mate
Steve Porters is just a regular old lad from South West London (Surrey) who has aced feminism and has subsequently landed himself a girlfriend. He may still live at home with his mom and is probably no older than 20, but Steve has a lot of advice to give.
In the second installment of Steve Porter’s educational seminar, HOW TO MATE: The Second XXX Ted Talk is designed to give you a holistic overview of everything needed to nab yourself a romantic partner. We explore a series of modules, supported by some expertly crafted visual aides, that are designed to leave the audience totally equipped to find their special someone. In the previous seminar, we learned how to flirt. Now, we shall learn how to ‘luv.’ Steve Porters is the man for this – he has had a girlfriend for an almighty two months.
This show is not a parody of a Ted Talk; the audience is an intrinsic participant in this production. Steve Porters somehow communicates with each individual without having to single them out. He has us bobbing our heads to strangers like a pigeon, communicating with those next to us, whether we know them or not. Leaning in for a potential kiss, holding unwavering eye contact, and so much more. The actual advice Steve Porters gives is not necessarily expert, but surprisingly, none of it is outrageously bad. There is a genuine undercurrent of well-meaning earnestness and authenticity for every posited idea. Steve Porters wants us to know that it is ok not to be ok, that bros need to tell their bros how they feel, that we should always confirm that someone is indeed available and interested, and that if we face rejection during an attempt to find a mate, it is important to say ‘no worries’ and simply move on.
Created, written, and performed by Daisy Doris May, Steve Porters as a character is so complex and intricate, a totally unpredictable drag performance that highlights the artistry of this artform. Daisy Doris May has expertly created a character that could go on forever, never ceasing to make others both laugh and ponder at the idea they find so funny. Mpilo May’s incredible direction gives the piece a youthful quality while also shrouding it in existential wonderment. HOW TO MATE: The Second XXX Ted Talk created a community out of the audience, and I truly cannot wait to watch what on earth Steve Porters might have in store for us in the next seminar.