As someone who is a part of Generation X, I’m always intrigued to hear stories about the previous generation, Baby Boomers. Born between 1944 and 1964, their name comes from the uptick in the post-WWII birth rate. If you really want to understand someone better, I believe, you should start with where they came from, so I’m always looking to hear from others, which brings me to BOOM. It’s a dynamic glimpse into the generation we call Baby Boomers.
Written, directed, and performed by Rick Miller, BOOM is a solo performance that documents the music, culture, and politics that shaped the Baby Boomer generation. Told through personal anecdotes from Miller’s mother and an African American activist who escaped the Vietnam draft, Miller gives voice to dozens of musicians and over a 100 politicians in this extraordinary performance. From war to consumerism to racism and politics, the show explores the significant milestones spanning over two decades. I came away from the performance completely in awe of Miller’s talent as a performer. Not to mention, the extraordinary design team, which includes projection designer, David Leclerc, and Yannik Larivee — who is the set, costume and prop designer.
They say the more things change, the more they stay the same. This rings true to me as you watch Miller act out the anecdotes. It’s no question, the politics of the boomer generation are tantamount to today’s. It reminds me of another famous saying: ‘Those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it.’ I have to admit, BOOM had emotions all over the place. Many of the stories made me smile, a few had me in tears and some even angered me. But I think most importantly, I got a better understanding of what shaped and ultimately defined the boomer generation.
BOOM takes place in an intimate arena-like setting at 59E59 Theaters, which is the perfect backdrop for this performance. And Rick Miller is hailed as “one of the most 100 creative people alive today” by Entertainment Weekly. The Dora and Gemini award-winning writer, director and performer created shows such as MacHomer and Bigger Than Jesus. BOOM is playing until February 23rd at 59E59 Theatre.
