What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and how can it impact a person? Well, the answer is complex. But it’s the subject of, Unstuck, a performance directed by Molly Rose Heller and written and performed by Olivia Levine. The powerful solo performance explores what it’s like growing up with OCD and how it has affected just about every facet of Levine’s life, including her queer identity.
When we see depictions of people who suffer from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, it’s usually excessive hand washing and repetitive counting. But Levine reveals much more about her behavior throughout her life. If the obsessions with masterbation or fear of killing her father won’t blow your mind, then the obsession with her potentially deadly vaginal discharge will. Through comedic anecdotes, projector slides, storytelling and flashbacks Levine gives us a glimpse into her compulsive thoughts about her platonic, familial and romantic relationships.
Mental illness can sometimes be hard to discuss because there is still a real stigma surrounding it. And I’d imagine doing a solo performance detailing your experiences with it is even harder. I have to admit, I was a little lost in Levine’s technical explanation of OCD, but really started to understand through her touching and over the top anecdotes.
Though her story was a little tough to hear at times, it left me with a feeling of hope regarding how we navigate mental illness in our society. Her performance and story is personal, brave, funny, and really touching. Unstuck is showing at The Tank, a non-profit performance venue, through February 23rd and tickets are $18.
