Guelph musician James Gordon expressed some nerves when crossing into the U.S. to present his solo political performance titled “Smashing the Oligarchy And Other Fun Pre-Apocalypse Activities.” Being mindful of the current U.S. administration under President Donald Trump, Gordon acknowledged the sensitivity around opposing political views in the country.
Before his journey south, Gordon humorously mentioned the need to be on his best behavior at the border. Reflecting on the importance of free speech, he humorously pondered questioning officials if stopped, albeit admitting he would approach the situation diplomatically.
Embarking on his U.S. tour through states like New York, Maryland, and Illinois, Gordon emphasized that his show aims to spark dialogue rather than merely provoke reactions. Drawing from his political background, he highlighted the significance of using humor and relatable content to engage audiences effectively.
“Smashing the Oligarchy” serves as a sequel to Gordon’s previous production, “James Gordon’s Emergency Climate Musical.” The musician stressed the necessity of dismantling the oligarchy to advance environmental causes, attributing setbacks in environmental efforts to powerful billionaires shaping policy agendas.
Scheduled to participate in the Greenwich Village Folk Festival’s online concert, Gordon expressed enthusiasm for contributing to a historic hub of the protest song movement. Festival organizer Rod MacDonald emphasized the event’s tradition of embracing diverse viewpoints while upholding a progressive ethos.
As Gordon looks forward to connecting with his American supporters during the tour, he anticipates fostering meaningful conversations through his music and performance. Encouraging hope and dialogue, he aims to engage audiences in reflective exchanges about navigating challenging times and seeking optimistic pathways forward.