RUGBURN is a darkly funny, design-drenched solo show about curated lives and chaotic truths. Performed by celebrity interior designer and theatre veteran Mat Sanders, the show begins in the surreal aftermath of a scandalous escape from a sex club — and unfolds as a fast-paced, character-driven confession that’s equal parts absurd comedy, physical theatre, queer vaudeville, and unhinged celebrity tell-all.

Using only his body, a few props, and a killer leather harness, Sanders shapeshifts through the glittery wreckage of his life — from the highs of styling A-listers and hosting makeover TV, to the lows of addiction, betrayal, and rugburn in all its literal and emotional forms. The story is told entirely from the skin he’s in: stripped-down, exposed, and dripping with theatricality. As he moves between moments of punchline, pathos, and poetic rage, the audience becomes his confidant, witness, and mirror.

Part memoir, part fever dream, RUGBURN explores what happens when you’ve built a beautiful life on a foundation of unresolved shame — and what it takes to crawl your way out with nothing but poppers, a jockstrap, and the last ounce of self-worth you forgot you had. It’s messy. It’s maximal. It’s deeply human.

One-person performance

Minimalist tech and set, high visual impact

Performed in character(s), with transformations layered over a base neutral costume

Theatre / Solo Performance / Queer Storytelling

(Crosses into Comedy, Cabaret, and Spoken Word)

Running Time: 60 min (no intermission)

Get-in/Get-out: 10–15 min

Lighting:

• Basic wash, 4-6 lighting states, optional spotlight

Sound:

• Audio cues run from laptop (with operator)

Set:

• 2 modular cubes, stool, minimal props

Stage Manager/Operator:

• Will travel with one OR seeking local hire (flexible)

Content Warning:

Adult language, sexual themes, simulated drug use

Age Rating: 18+ recommended

Accessibility: Open to relaxed performance or captioning if venue provides support