"Start as you mean to go on". Considering recent experiences at Sheffield hallam Univeristy, that is how i would describe my first few weeks on the BA Acting & performance course. Covid has been a fact of life for so long that finally being able to come together, meet course mates and become an audience member again was an experience like no other. This was certainly the case for Clean Break's production of Typical Girls, performed at the Crucible Theatre.
Typical Girls, although addresses many issues seen within modern day society, i would argue pays homage to the 'value' of the individual. Rather than generalise the situation the inmates find themselves in, the play opens up on each character, breaking the fourth wall using monologues, giving the audience a snapshot in to their life as an inmate and their life outside of prison. The question is, who are we to judge?
I particularly enjoyed Alison Fotzjohn's portrayal of Mouth, adding an element of comedy and comfort to the otherwise uncomfortable and at times more sinister moments of the play. The characters are extremely relatable, allowing for a true disconnect and shift in perspective and sympathy, at times allowing the audience to forget the women are in prison and allow them a chance to get to know them on a personal level. The music throughout the performance was used very well and choices of song and lyrics, taken from the band The Slits, proved to be an inspired choice, connecting the audience to the characters and their stories.
All in all, Typical Girls is an experience like no other. You will find yourself in some way relating to the experiences shared on stage, allowing for reflection on the situation the characters find themselves in and a world where it seems they are shadowed from a chance at redemption. I thoroughly enjoyed the performance, for me amplifying the message to 'never judge a book by its cover', and would recommend it to anyone in a week where returning to the theatre felt like coming home.
Top image: The Company of Typical Girls. Photo by Helen Murray.
Bottom Image: The Company of Typical Girls. Photo by Helen Murray.
Comments
Matt, this is really thoughtful and well written. You've teased out some important points while also making the case for people to get out and enjoy the theatre again. Good work!
Great introduction to the blog. Very in depth review focusing on the performance as well as how it made you feel. Keep up the great work.
Great review Matt! I really liked how you broke down the aspects that you enjoyed about Typical Girls and the review would really make me want to go and see it! (if I wasn't there when you were)