This Review is from August 2024
Stephanie tells us that she can be a tad clumsy. Apparently, on occasion, she’s been known to fall over her own feet. Perhaps she’s an unlikely recipient of arts funding for dance classes. Yet, here we are, in a show that seeks to blend stand up, dance, and er, emotional cartoon bears. We delve into the themes of body image, sex, self-love, consent, and healing.
Stephanie has never been afraid to broach personal subjects, sharing moments of real emotional intimacy, and vulnerability. The dance is not performed for laughs. This is not a series of pratfalls. Instead, drawing from a range of dance styles – from Martha Graham and Merce Cunningham to Belly Dancing and Burlesque – she offers what amounts to a celebration of self-acceptance via movement.
I don’t know my Graham from my Cunningham (I had to look them up) but the dance beautifully tells the comedian’s story. Occasionally, comedic elements serve to work against the show’s themes and so, as a show, it can feel a little uneven. If she develops this idea further, and I hope she does, it may mean talking some of the jokes out.
Ultimately, there is a real joy in this performance. She can dance and do it well.
Martin Walker
Podcast interview with Stephanie Laing
Image by Rob Wisken
Tickets HERE
Reviews of Stephanie Laing: Rudder collated by the British Comedy Guide HERE
Stephanie’s Profile HERE
