Hole! repeat – dirty magic of music … and it makes you blush | Section

A a sordid tale about a god-fearing Christian cult in rural Nebraska who, in a disgusting, scientific way, are forced to wear butt plugs to avoid being thrown into the ether, would be completely absurd. But the genius technology behind the hard-working second-hander ensures that every second is incredibly fun – even if it puts you to shame.

It is written and performed by Jake Brasch and Nadja Leonhard-Hooper, who perform together as the New York-based outfit American Sing Song. They’re not just great storytellers and great musicians and artists – they’re creating their own soundscapes on the fly. During this 80-minute show, every pop, shrill and terrifying (like a plug being accidentally pulled out) is heard, and every word is heard, sometimes in unison.

There’s a lot of world-building going on here, but basically we’re in the middle of nowhere, where the only survivors are Garth’s crew of prophecies and a sprinkling of others who were trapped during The Great Sucking.

The story follows young friends Connor (Leonhard-Hooper) and Luke (Brasch) as they venture out of their corn-fed neighborhood as two Book of Mormon missionaries, but with a deadly mission to find, un-plug and thereby kill the gay community. But when he wakes up from immorality he sees the boys change in themselves, returning to their conservative theocracy is no longer desired.

Standing behind a spaceship-looking console, their hair curled into matching holes on the top of their heads, Leonhard-Hooper and Brasch have a fascinating rapport and never lose sight of us as they switch between characters and switch instruments. Even their mid-frame swigs from giant water bottles are linked. The music is magical magic that you’ll want to follow (even with powerful headphones given the x-rated sound). Accompaniment by Brasch on keys often makes the whole thing sound like a jaunty song, and in a particularly inspired number, Leonard-Hooper gives a live performance with his hands driving the shoes.

Stylish and full of originality, this is a stadium that is both impressive and popular.