A five hole, in hockey terminology, is the space between the goalie’s legs. There could not be a better metaphor to aptly describe the union of One Yellow Rabbit artistic director Blake Brooker, writer Dave Bidini and the Rheostatics bringing Calgary theatre a little taste of erotic hockey and all the hilarity that goes with it.
Five Hole: Tales of Hockey Erotica aims at entertaining on the basis of Canadian culture, desire and humour, all shown through the retrospective lens of hockey. Derived from the hockey erotica book by Dave Bidini, the play also has a unique musical touch. Toronto rock band the Rheostatics add even more eye-opening curiosity to the series of plays.
“It’s got two of Canada’s favourite pastimes– sex and hockey– and also a third, rock and roll,” says Brooker. “So it’s a common issue of those things and it’s quite funny.”
The show, back after a hiatus, is in Calgary for only one night and then begins a Canadian tour starting in the Yukon of all places. But even way up north, Brooker expects the show to resonate well.
“The response we had from the first run was very strong,” says Brooker. “It’s very satisfying to bring it back.”
The play consists of everything from a Bobby Hull-based character, to the escapades of a co-ed beer league and some 1940s Chicago “Original Six” era references that all hockey fans will appreciate. The culture of hockey and those who play it are core Canadian concepts and Brooker emphasizes the play shows the impact of that on Canadians.
“The thing about hockey is it exists in the big cities of Canada in the NHL, but it’s very popular in small towns, very popular,” says Brooker. “The rink is the place where the town gathers.”
But the show is not all old-fashioned hockey humour– it is entwined within the tales of erotica. The erotic importance is not only great for its sex appeal but adds a relatable theme. One character’s storyline narrates his dirty dreams and attraction to a teammate. But it’s not all naughty– it’s natural, too.
“It’s called erotica, and I think it’s erotica not because it’s pornographic, but because it contains a desire that humans seem to have, and always will have,” Brooker says.
Brooker believes U of C students should take an interest in this particular show as it is different from ordinary theatre. Considering the stereotypical theatre production, one lacking in originality and realism, this show offers a refreshing twist for hockey and humour loving audiences.
“Theatre can be somewhat dull sometimes, and I don’t think this is dull,” he admits. “There are some beautiful qualities in this and it’s funny.”
Dull? Considering the main themes are sex and hockey, chances are it is anything but.