As you walk into the Belgrade’s B2 studio accompanied by a rap soundtrack, and take your seat around what can only be described as a minimalist circus, with bunting hanging to a peak on the ceiling, and a small circular pedestal in the centre you arrive unprepared for the level of emotion this one-woman show, written by Frankie Meridith, will bring,
Yasmin Dawes dominates the stage as Leigh, a magnetic force that keeps all eyes fixated on her for the 90 minutes as she shares the events leading up to and after her stint as May Queen. Her entrance is unnerving, Leigh strides into the spotlight, a vision of pastel pink tulle and bare feet, and it feels like you’re watching someone in the midst of a mental breakdown as she calls out the same lines to Godiva.
The tone suddenly switches and you could be on facetime together, her interactive conversational style revealing intimate details, even if just through subtexts that become increasingly obvious.
The events -harassment and microaggressions – Leigh describes are relatable experiences for most women, and Dawes conveys so much of the shame and anger merely through her body language. Her storytelling is impeccable, switching characters, mannerisms and voices in the blink of an eye. With zero props the lighting and sound, directed by Chris McDonell and Kieran Lucas respectively, add an extra dimension to the performance. Sound effects accompanying every mime, from windows opening and text notifications to the background of the May Day celebrations themselves, you can almost believe you’re right there in Cov centre.
The ending weighs on you, despite the catharsis Leigh receives in her rage and revenge, you’re still fearful of the repercussions for her despite never having to spectate them. It’s not a light piece, but it is impactful.
May Queen is showing at The Belgrade until 1st July, find tickets here: https://www.belgrade.co.uk/events/may-queen-2/
****
Katie Reviews 