Review by Monica Woodberry – Performance date: Saturday 22 February 2025, The Mercury Cinema, 13 Morphett St, Adelaide, SA
King Of More: Veza, a compelling and interactive theatrical performance, is a powerful exploration of ambition, power, and the human condition. Starring Dan Lukic, from the minute it kicks off, the audience is drawn into a world of striking visuals and intense emotional undercurrents. Dane’s performance as the sole character is nothing short of mesmerising, showcasing his remarkable range as a performer.
A Character Consumed by Power
The play revolves around the complexities of a character who constantly seeks more – more power, more influence, more satisfaction – only to find that the pursuit of these desires comes at a great personal cost. Dane’s portrayal of this multifaceted figure is both captivating and haunting. His ability to switch between moments of arrogance and vulnerability keeps the audience on edge, never quite sure what to expect next.
An Interactive Experience
Adding an exciting layer to the experience, King Of More: Veza is an interactive performance that blurs the lines between stage and audience. Without giving too much away, the show invites viewers to become more than passive observers, creating a unique and immersive atmosphere. This element enhances the emotional stakes and allows the audience to feel like an active part of the unfolding narrative.
A Reflection on Society
For me, the most striking takeaway from Dane’s performance was its poignant commentary on the relevance of human connection in an increasingly fractured society. The character’s obsessive drive for personal gain, while neglecting the collective, offers a stark reflection on how modern society prioritises individual success over shared values and empathy. Dane’s portrayal made me think about how this mindset not only impacts personal relationships but also has far-reaching political consequences.
The play invites reflection on how the erosion of collective responsibility – when everyone is only concerned with their own interests—leads to societal fragmentation and alienation. Yet, it also beautifully underscores that, despite our growing individualism, we are all intrinsically connected in ways we often fail to see but can certainly feel. The show reminds us that our actions, whether conscious or not, ripple through the fabric of society, creating effects we may not fully understand but undeniably experience.
A Visually Striking Production
The direction of the play is equally impressive, with a clear focus on pacing and atmosphere. The use of lighting and sound adds depth to the performance, enhancing the emotional intensity without overshadowing Dane’s presence on stage. The set design, minimal yet effective, allows for moments of intimacy while also evoking a larger-than-life sense of the character’s ambitions.
A Promising Future for Dane and King Of More: Veza
Considering this was Dane’s debut at the Adelaide Fringe, the production already stands as a remarkable achievement. With more polish and refinement, I’m eager to see how it evolves in the future. King Of More: Veza is an admirable and thought-provoking piece of theatre, one that lingers in your mind long after the final curtain.
Final Verdict
A powerful and introspective exploration of ambition, expertly executed by Dane. I look forward to seeing this show again in its next iteration!
Tickets for the remaining shows here!
