Fringe Review

“Man Cave Volume II, A One Man Sci-Fi Climate Change Tragicomedy”

Timothy Mooney Repertory Theatre

Review by Deb Branson

July 18, 2026, 8:00 p.m. at the Center for Spiritual Living

“Man Cave: A One Man Sci-Fi Climate Change Tragicomedy” presents a grimly funny look at a worst-case scenario future on planet Earth. Timothy Mooney wrote and performs this solo show as a follow up to his 2019 KC Fringe offering, “Man Cave, a One-Man Sci-Fi Climate Change Tragicomedy.” In the first “Man Cave,” the last man on Earth broadcasts to whatever space aliens might still be paying attention.

In the wake of the 2024 U.S. elections, Mooney offers an admittedly gloomy look at the fate of humans after climate-denying governments fail to stop rising global temperatures. In this view, a voice continues to broadcast to anyone still listening—if there is anyone left to listen.

Staging and costuming let the light literally shine on Mooney’s character and message. He sits at simple, modern computer desk topped with a laptop, microphone, and the obligatory coffee cup. He wears only a t-shirt and boxers—this is an audio-only broadcast, after all. Mooney’s expressive face and vocal prowess effectively sustain the audience’s attention throughout the 51-minute show.

“Man Cave, Volume II” does not deliver easy, comfortable laughs, but the subject is neither easy nor comfortable. Mooney rips the band-aid off our collective “why worry today” attitude about climate change, but soothes the sting with genuine, if bitter, humor.