Podcasting as an art form has become incredibly popular over the last few years. It covers all sorts of interesting topics of interest and if you are lucky enough to do a podcast yourself and become successful with it, then all sorts of doors can open for you. This very concept is explored in Jacob Lovick’s latest production, The Famous Ashtray, which looks at the True Crime Podcast genre and comedically turns it all on its head, as the most interesting, dark secrets of music are exposed to the world. But is it really all about an ashtray that formulated some of the unusual behaviours of famous (and infamous) artists? Or is it more about the world of conspiracy theories needing a platform of its own?
Jacob Lovick: The Famous Ashtray
Lovick played infamous podcaster Miles Betterthanieu, as well as other interesting guest characters, as he invited a select audience to the live final of his ashtray podcast. Using an array of slick comedy scriptwriting, carefully selected audience members to interact with using the provided que scripts and some of the finest physical character work seen to date, he set the scene for what was to be one of the most clever pieces of original writing seen so far this year. It was full of well-researched historical events in music, some fun psychedelic twists and turns that verged on the absurd and even threw in some witchcraft cults for good measure. All this, combined with the atmospheric setting of The Actors Theatre, went beyond the typical one-person show on the circuit. It became an experience that was not only enjoyable, but atmospheric.
The guest characters in themselves were well developed and had a sense of anarchy that was reminiscent of the various time periods presented. Whether it was the rebellious nature of the 1980’s, the psychedelic 60’s, or the uncertainty of the current time period, each character resembled an aspect of those eras that were eccentric and engaging. Lovick’s transitions between each one were seamless and made sure the physical aspects were well defined through each vocal change, hand gesture and body position, making sure each one was distinctive. The personal highlight for me was when he became Serendipity, the highest witch in the world, who explored how magic really plays a part in making someone, or something a star. To see where that choice takes you, it is better to experience this show firsthand.
But it was the frustrated podcaster Myles who was the man of the hour as he tried to navigate his own personal complicated relationships alongside the pressures of fame that really made The Famous Ashtray come to life. Lovick created someone who not only was the perfect show host, but a man whose ego was set up to make sure he failed miserably. It was a subtle journey that was gradually accelerated to bring home the power of how comedy drama should be delivered. He had a gravitas to his unlikeable hero that made sure the punchlines had a sense of realism to them, rather than a constant eccentric drive, such as the guests had. Doing it this way created an experience that had definitive highs and lows, as well as a storyline that was appealing and intriguing
Jacob Lovick: The Famous Ashtray is a cleverly constructed play that has all the perfect ingredients for both theatre and podcaster lovers alike. Keep an eye out as this show continues its journey. If it is this high a standard now, it will be interesting to see where else it will go next.
Reviewed by Sascha Cooper
Miles Betterthanieu is one of the world’s leading True Crime Podcasters (TM). You’ll know him as presenter of ’15th In Line: An Investigation into why Prince Edward is actually the Queen’s Worst Child’ (Natter Platter Nominee 2022*), ‘Windsor vs Castle: Who Is The Best Barbara?’ and ‘Murder of the True Crime Podcaster’.
But for his new series ‘The Famous Ashtray’, an investigation into the object at the dark heart of every musical controversy of the 20th/21st Centuries, has Miles finally met his match? In a terrifying live show that ties together everything from witch cults to BuzzBalls, from getting punched in the face to 80s EuroPop, this is True Crime Podcasting (TM) you’ll want to like and subscribe to.
‘The Famous Ashtray’ is a psychedelic character comedy from the unruly mind of Jacob Lovick (4 million views on TikTok/Instagram).
*’Most Episodes in One Series’ award
Praise for Jacob’s previous work:
“Why wouldn’t you go?” ★★★★ – A Youngish Perspective
★★★★ – Broadway Baby
Cast & Creative Team
Written/Performed by Jacob Lovick
Directed by Martin Willis (Andrew Doherty: Gay Witch Sex Cult)
