The DOs and DON'Ts of DOING It

Thank you everyone for the constant support. The show exceeded all of my expectations, and, given how many reviewers mention their initial skepticism, it seems to have done the same for audience members too.

Many people have messaged me, or spoken to me after, about the show's content, so I'll reiterate what I said on closing night:

If you are feeling or undergoing anything that is explored throughout the show, be it s*xual dysfunction, trauma, pressure, etc., then you need to tell someone. Communicate with your partner, tell a friend, a GP - even message me on here, and I would love to listen. You are not a hero for keeping it to yourself. You do not get bonus point on the lurid game show that is your body. You will lose. I did, and this is why I made the show.

To imply that it will be easy is misguided. But, it will certainly be worth it.

Ineffable appreciation to to Adelaide Fringe and Steven Marshall for providing the financial support to create this.

Thomas.

Daniel Pitt was professional, creative, and accomodating. Not only did he gallantly resew all my buttons, but he was willing to be hypoxic during rehearsals for the sake of realistic thrusting. Thank you, Daniel, for making the play as humorous as it is.

Without Jay, this show would not have been as exciting, as captivating, or as ambitious. Thank you so much, Jay, for being a part of the show.

After the first week, I sent emails to audience members, asking for the completion of feedback surveys about the show. I sent 32 emails, got 13 responses (≈ 40%).

Here's how the show was rated! No zeros (my mother hadn't seen it yet), and 7x 10s! Of course, the sample size is small, and people may have been more willing to respond if they liked it, but, this is definitely an indication that the show was well received by the audiences.

Thank you for all the constructive feedback on the show, too. Many issues, such as the preshow, lighting, acting and verisimilitude, have been acknowledged and addressed. Some cannot change until another possible season, but some were implemented immediately, so, I am very appreciative for the comments.

And that's all, folks! Eight out of 12 sessions are sold out.

Thank you for the incredible support. I hope we can continue to have conversations about s*xual dysfunction beyond this show.

Thomas.

Seven sold out nights!

This is getting rather surreal. Thank you so much for the constant support.

Ironically, still plenty left for tonight, if you can make it!

Sold out number 5!

And we have two people coming on Wednesday. Go figure. :P

Join the crowd at: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021!

Sold out night number four, here we come!

https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021

Seedoeat Reviews also gave us ★★★★1/2!

"A raw and emotional tale about love, loss, and betrayal that was so full of heart and emotion that it nearly led me to tears."

Would love your thoughts too! https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021

The Advertiser gave us ★★★★1/2!
"Thomas Kostakis’ wild, laugh-out-loud expose of his love life...is graphic, dark and ultimately emotional and moving."
"Directed by Alex Howarth, this raw, engaging, rollicking and unexpected show is a definite do, not don’t."

Join the fun at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021!

People seem to like it! Wooooooo!

Buy tickets now! https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021

Preview nights are over! Please provide feedback at https://0egv1cj28pd.typeform.com/to/gHrLNdeM

And buy more tickets? Why not?! Say it's for the economy! :P
https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021

The DOs and DON'Ts of Doing It | Adelaide Fringe Welcome to the DOs and DON'Ts of Doing It!After coming out, Thomas discovers the idiosyncrasies of the homos*xual community, and frequently finds himself between rock and a euphemistically hard place. Balancing his pelvic floor dysfunction and desire to find a long-term partner, Th...

The incredible set, created by Jay Van Dam!

Support local artists at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021!

(Trigger warning: hate-speech [sensored])

I am fortunate to have had very little hate-speech since my admission of my s*xuality. Yeah, the cliché bullying in school, but it was never dramatic nor physical, and the abundant apologies at my reunion were overwhelming.

But, two days ago, there was graffiti at work, reading: "The gay, young q***r who works here, black hair, big nose, loves getting f***ed. He likes being r**ed," accompanied with an inarguably thorough picture of me.

I did not find it overly offensive simply because of its ignorance. As most of you now know, I have a s*xual dysfunction; I genuinely do not crave s*x, as I don't really care for or enjoy it. And this isn't intended with self-righteousness or superciliousness; I don't think I "better" or more profound for preferring intimacy, cuddles (or, better yet, food), but, given the fact I have physiologically reduced sensation in the p***s and re**um, it really isn't worthwhile for me, so it makes no sense to crave it. I wish I did - it looks fun.

I suppose, though, that I am more self-conscious of my performing at the Fringe this year, essentially airing my dirty, seminal laundry for the public. 'The DOs and DON'Ts of DOING It' demonstrates the psychology of someone with a s*xual dysfunction trying to fit in with the community, and, given its specificity, would be a suitable recipient of further graffiti.

In moments like this, am I meant to be emboldened by the vitriol? Empowered to "reject the haters" and whatnot? I'm not at all. Given my peaceful upbringing, it was something I never anticipated. Simply, I don't look forward to further comments of this nature, but, I suppose that being more public with my s*xuality will engender such remarks, despite their reductiveness, callousness, and, ultimately, ignorance.

Thomas.

Three sold out days! Who would have known that my rambles about my s*x life would have been so popular?

Buy tickets fast! https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021

Last rehearsal! And only (wait for it) 63 things to work on!

You guys have been a delight to work with. See you tomorrow for opening night!

Buy tickets at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021!

Last rehearsal done! Opening night on Monday! Who's absolutely exhausted?!?!

Buy tickets at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021!

The dedicated director, Alex Howarth!

Fringe-goers may recognise Alex from his award-winning and critically-acclaimed shows ‘Cassie and the Lights’ (Best Theatre Week 2, Adelaide Fringe 2019) and ‘We Live By The Sea’ (Best Theatre Week 2, Critic’s Choice Week 3, Grahame F Smith Peace Foundation Award), receiving multiple five-star reviews and global attention.

After reading the script, Alex could immediately realise the theatrics: the exaggerated caricatures and daring set design, balanced with the heavy tones of the plot and character development. I am still flattered that someone of his expertise was willing to partake in this production, and that he saw potential in my script.

Since rehearsals, he has been thoroughly creating this vision in a friendly and professional manner, and very considerate and accommodating to others’ suggestions.

Come support artists at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021.
Alex’s website: https://www.alexhowarthdirector.com/directing

I think we're running out of ways to depict s*x on stage.

One week to go! Buy tickets now! https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021

Introducing Jay Van Dam (Set Designer)!

Currently completing a Bachelor of Architecture at UniSA, Jay has wanted to combine her building and design skills with her artistic passions from past acting experience, visual arts studies and her own painting. Inspired by her family of similarly talented actors and set designers, Jay is an up-and-coming designer who is ready to create an impact in the industry.

From Jay’s initial sketches and ideas, we knew that Jay was remarkably ambitious in creating a set that encapsulates the gameshow aesthetic of the show. Perhaps even too ambitious? Too much for “a mere Fringe show,” we were told. However, through her organisation, commitment and talent, she has created a set and props that are distinguished, refined, memorable and interactive.

I continue to be amazed by her creativity and skill, and I could not have achieved the ambiance without her. Please welcome Jay, and support local Adelaide artists at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021.

Presenting Daniel Pitt!

At the end of 2019, Daniel Pitt was ready to break onto the Adelaide Arts scene once he graduated from Flinders Drama Centre. Unfortunately, Covid had other plans. He did not waste his time in lock-down however, having time to reflect, improve, and direct a music video about chicken nuggets. 'The DOs And DON'Ts of DOING It' will be his first Fringe performance, and, pandemic permitting, the first of many.

Daniel shines playing his various roles in this play, a skill honed through his performances of 'The Laramie Project' (directed by Catherine Fitzgerald) and 'The Good Person of Szechwan' (Nescha Jelk). Daniel believes the play strikes a balance between rolling on the floor laughing one moment, then crying on the carpet the next (as long as you sanitise after, you're fine).

I am incredibly lucky to be working with such a talented actor. Please welcome Daniel, and support local Adelaide artists at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021.

Rehearsals keep going despite Covid!

The talented Alex Howarth (director of Cassie and the Lights, We Live By The Sea) stuck in a captivating freeze frame while we laugh at him.

Hopefully, the show is smoother than this. Buy tickets at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021!

Saturday, 27/2 is sold out!

An utter thanks to everyone for the overwhelming support and interest. I will do my very best to make sure you guys all enjoy it.

Feel free to continue spreading the word and buying tickets at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021!

Rehearsals are underway!

The amazing Alex Howarth (Cassie and the Lights 2020), the delightful Daniel Pitt, and a cat who loved to walk on by and flaunt its arse at inopportune moments.

Buy tickets now! https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021

THREE WEEKS TO GO!

Thank you to everyone who has already bought tickets; I can't believe that one show is already 75%-sold out with a few weeks to go.

Book tickets here! https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021

The ambitious and creative Jay (set design), the indescribably talented Llew of (carpentry)...and me with bed hair at 1230pm.

Sexual dysfunction can be rather adorable.

Book tickets now! https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-dos-and-don-ts-of-doing-it-af2021