Have you ever had an overwhelmingly intense crush? CRUSH is a raw and honest solo show that explores discovering one's sexuality and navigating intense infatuations. Benjamin Quirk lays it all out, beginning with childhood moments of self-discovery, such as the subtle, yet significant, realization of difference while moisturizing his legs and comparing them to other boys in his class.
Quirk is a delight to watch, effortlessly blending comedy with vulnerability. He confesses his undying love for Timothée Chalamet (because, apparently, you don’t need abs to be dreamy), questions society’s obsession with masculinity, and spills the tea on his own Parisian romance (because, of course, his boyfriend’s name is Valentine, straight out of a rom-com). His storytelling is sharp, self-aware, and packed with those ‘oh-my-god-same!’ moments that make you laugh and cringe at the same time. He reminds us that having a crush is heaven. Until it’s not. Until it’s all-consuming and slightly embarrassing.
CRUSH is 45 minutes of laughter, relatability and the deep, existential sighs we have when we realise the movies lied about love. It’s messy, chaotic and, just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, Quirk throws in a curveball: are we crushing on people or just the idea of them? Either way, you’ll leave questioning your past obsessions, texting your best friend, and maybe, just maybe, resisting the urge to check your crush’s Insta one last time.