How to be Amazingly Happy Review

Theatre Royal Studio Theatre, York – 25 October 2019

Reviewed by Katie Goldsbrough

3***

Victoria Firth stars in this one woman show exploring how to be happy as a middle-aged lesbian woman without children. She tried various activities including running, baking, tap dancing and cabaret among others.

The whole show is lively and upbeat, although at times it came across as patronising as though she were speaking to children. Including being asked to join in with a song about a dog by woofing at the end. With an audience of only around 30 people this felt a little awkward.

The show could have delved more in to the serious effects of not having children instead it showed just the quest for happiness by trying different hobbies.

A voice-over referred to as the universe regularly talked about the serious thoughts going on in Victoria’s head, these were often just one line and were not discussed in any further detail. It appeared as though the happiness portrayed throughout the show was just a front for a feeling that something was missing.

Flash cards were used to welcome the audience and throughout the show. The set was comprised of a black box, Victoria was sat here as we entered, and 5 red boxes the contents of which were revealed throughout the show. Each box represented a different activity that had been tried, with a new costume, it was refreshing to see a real woman, comfortable in her own skin, getting changed in front of the audience, at one point appearing in a bra and neon green tights with black pants showing through.

Victoria is engaging and energetic throughout and ultimately, she ends up being happy.