Brian Feldman washing dishes in a kitchen (presumably not yours). Photo courtesy Brian Feldman Projects/Capital Fringe

By DCist Contributor Jonelle Walker

Dishwasher might have the simplest concept of any Fringe show this summer: conceptual artist and actor Brian Feldman comes to your home, does your dishes, and then performs a monologue of your choice. At the end of this piece, it’s up to you to decide* whether Feldman is better at washing dishes or acting.

That finale is where Dishwasher’s apparent simplicity dissolves. Buying a ticket for this performance (as of press time, this is something you cannot do; the show is completely sold out) is certainly a practical use of $17, but also obligates the audience to make a personal judgment of Feldman. A judgment that—not coincidentally—is strongly reminiscent of a professional audition. The audience is cast in the uncomfortable role of auditor. Should you legitimize his artistic pursuits (presumably his passion) or relegate him to manual labor? Expect to toil over the verdict, particularly if you start getting to know Feldman over the suds and scripts. (You’re equally welcome to just quietly go about your daily tasks while he scrubs, if that’s how you’re most comfortable interacting with “the help”).

Beyond its surprising complexity, the beauty of Dishwasher is that each performance is guaranteed to be both one-of-a-kind and earnest. Feldman allows for the audience to determine almost every element of the piece: location, time, tasks, and conclusion. Prefer to watch Netflix as he washes your dishes? No problem! Further, Dishwasher takes a refreshing cue from the Neo-Futurists‘ handbook, keeping Feldman grounded as himself with no noticeable performative airs. With that spirit, the performance flows as naturally as having an acquaintance over for a pleasant, though peculiar, visit.

The 18 patrons who scored tickets to Dishwasher should consider themselves among the festival elite. This performance is, unsurprisingly, the most talked about show this summer. However, rest assured that Dishwasher will leave its mark on Washington not for having an eyebrow-raising concept, but for being intimate, engaging, and delightful.

*This is technically a spoiler, but as the show has already sold out, you’ve missed your chance to be surprised -ed.

Dishwasher plays once at the house of each ticket holder. All remaining performances are currently sold out. If additional performances are announced they will be posted here.