Based in San Jose, California, Perspicuum is a unique company focused on creating immersive, introspective, and innovative works of performance art. Crafting both in-person and virtual experiences, Perspicuum most recently finished a run of its phone-based production – Perfection.
I was incredibly honored to be invited to attend one of Perfection’s September performances. With an emphasis on self-reflection and personal revelation, Perfection was an unforgettable show and a deeply meaningful experience. I highly recommend it! Thank you, Perspicuum, for having me out!
*Due to the thoughtful and reflective nature of Perspicuum’s productions, it is important to maintain the secrecy of the details and plot points of Perfection. There are no spoilers in this article.*
About Perspicuum
Pushing the boundaries of immersive theater, Perspicuum creates remarkable in-person and virtual productions that challenge audience perceptions and attitudes. Unlike more traditional experiences, Perspicuum does not ask its guests to take on a specific persona or “role” in their shows. Instead, participants are asked to be completely themselves and to allow the story to reveal their hidden strengths and unknown weaknesses. It’s definitely an out-of-the-box take on this type of performance art, and I love it!
For more information about the Perspicuum company, their safety precautions, and production philosophies; visit perspicuumimmersive.com.
About Perfection
Written and performed by Thomas Darknell, Perfection is an intense, phone-based, one-on-one production. While I won’t give away any of the show’s details, I will tell you that to experience Perfection is to be faced head-on with both the best and worst thoughts you have about yourself. It’s an opportunity to challenge your own perspectives and attitudes about your abilities, relationships, and perceptions. I’ve truly never experienced anything like it!
How to Participate in Perfection
In order to participate in Perfection, you must complete an application, waiver, and information form. On the form you will be asked to answer several intimate questions about your most shameful insecurities and proudest moments. In order to enhance the experience, audience members and applicants are encouraged to be as truthful as possible. Any information included on the form will be used to personalize the phone call. Personally, I chose to be totally raw and honest, and I am glad that I did! While filling out and submitting the form was certainly a vulnerable moment, it made the entire production more impactful and powerful.
Trigger Warnings
However, as with any extreme production, there is a potential for triggering material. Perfection includes a variety of sensitive themes such as derogatory language, personal insults, invasive tactics, emotional manipulation, depression, adult content, and more. You can avoid some triggers by simply not including certain details on your information form. However, participant discretion is still advised.
Freaky Thoughts: Perfection by Perspicuum
I am no stranger to immersive theater or out-of-the-box productions, but I’ve never experienced anything like this! Perfection is not only well-written and executed, it’s IMPORTANT. This show forced me to confront a few difficult truths which resulted in significant personal discoveries and self-exploration. I learned a lot about my own insecurities and attitudes, and I truly believe I am just a little bit stronger and more self-assured after this encounter. YOU MUST experience Perspicuum’s Perfection!
Keep in Touch with Perspicuum
While the September run of Perfection has come to an end, it will return! To stay updated on future performance dates or other shows by Perspicuum, make sure to visit their website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook!
