Curriculum Vitae
nytheatre.com review by Gyda Arber
March 12, 2007
Jimmy Hogg's solo show, Curriculum Vitae, opens to the strains of Dolly Parton's "9 to 5," and features Hogg in his robe, coffee in hand, getting ready for yet another job interview. Structured in resumé format, Hogg guides us through his entire employment history, throwing in tidbits about his first love, movie preferences, and drinking habits. The show is also a revealing look at the British employment system—very similar in many ways to our own, but noticeably different in others.
Hogg's career path starts him as an assistant to a squirrelly financial advisor who wisely knows that a 15-year-old won't confront him about being short-changed. When this experience ends, he works as a janitor with two Sandras (Sandra-the-supervisor and Sandra-not-the-supervisor, who's frustrated that she's not Sandra-the-supervisor). Other jobs include a construction assistant who doesn't do much construction, head catering assistant at a theater (a great job until shenanigans at the office Christmas party ensue), and, of course, a stint on unemployment.
Hogg is irresistibly charming, enthusiastic, and adorable (of course, the British accent helps). Hogg, a gifted physical performer, verges on clowning at times, and creates vivid characterizations of each boss and coworker he's had, both physically and vocally. Often stopping the proceedings when the audience doesn't understand a joke, Hogg reaches out and uses our laughter (or lack of it) to great comedic effect.
Curriculum Vitae is a great asset to FRIGID New York. Anyone who's ever looked for a job can enjoy this one—catch it before it's too late!
