Presented by Meon Productions
Review by Hunter King
Doonstairs at Gilded Balloon Patter House
You may remember the Cheetah Girls or The Spice Girls, but now there is a new set of GIRLZ in town. GIRLZ is a fast paced exploration of the difficulties, but ultimate friendships that come from girl groups in the music industry. The show primarily revolves around Nicky (Meggie Hughes) and her life from being accepted into the group and the hardships she and her friends face, largely at the hands of their corrupt manager Dan Cashman (Lee Docherty).
The show itself has earned three stars for its ambition and the impressive performances that the actors put in. Abigail Wiltshire as Charlie is a particular standout, her vocals are unsuspectingly soft and folklike which bring a juxtaposition that makes her song stand out. Additionally Simone- Mistry Palmer’s choreography is spot on and incredibly impressive.
Unfortunately, where the show loses steam is in its writing. While this may be a cut version of a longer show, it never gives a moment to digest what is happening on stage. When a problem is addressed before the audience has a chance to even think about it, we have moved on to the next plot point. There is also a danger to the show, notably in Tamara Tare’s character of Alex, who is meant to be sympathetic because of her bad childhood and pill addiction. Admittedly, Tare plays the role extremely well (especially while singing about her anxiety in a rock song that feels distinct and tonally smart); she brings attention to issues issues of child abuse/ neglect and drug addiction, but it is disappointing to see a Black actor in a largely White passing cast falling into stereotypes that could perpetuate a larger issue.
Perhaps some of these issues could be ironed out in the full edition of GIRLZ, but as it stands currently, the show definitely could use some editing. Bearing this in mind though, the show does have some songs that are catchy and could easily be successful if released on streaming services, as well as tight and sharp performances from all of the performers, making it still a piece that is worth seeing, especially in its early stages.
Catchy
GIRLZ runs at Venue 24, Doonstairs at Gilded Balloon Patter House at various times
Running time – Sixty-five minutes
Review by Hunter King (contact@corrblimey.uk)
Hunter is a 2024 Master’s graduate of the University of Edinburgh and current doctoral candidate with a thesis focused on experimental theatre in Edinburgh. He has been a theatre practitioner for over a decade having worked in many capacities including as a director, actor, stage manager, front of house manager, and technician as well as others. Prior to moving to Edinburgh, Hunter was a high school English teacher in the United States. His passion for the written word as well as his passion for live performance are what motivated him to become a writer for this publication.
