Bread and Roses Theatre – until 8th June 2019
Reviewed by Heather Chalkley
3***
Laura-Doe sets out to educate through entertainment, labelling it edutainment. Walking us through the mechanics of female genitalia, she encourages audience participation in a way I guarantee you have not experienced before! All this without any nudity and using biologically correct Vulva cushions and a puppet theatre!
She cleverly dispels myths and provides the real facts, including how to pleasure yourself or your female partner. Through several characters and adopting a variety of accents, we are taken through the perspectives of different cultures and their attitudes to the Vulva. There are no doubt awkward moments for most people with an English sensibility and Doe’s humour gets you through this. The relationship between education and entertainment is a little clunky, as Doe clearly wants to get her message across. More passion in the humour would balance this out.
The Creatives use of pre-recorded voices and backing tracks is delivered without fault and keeps the momentum going, allowing the Vulva cushions to speak! Using familiar songs and rewriting the words is a great way to engage the audience.
It is impressive the ease with which Doe uses ‘taboo’ language, that we do not usually include in open conversation. Doe is a gutsy lady with a real belief in what she is doing. You are encouraged to join the Vulvalation! Go along and expect the unexpected, including laughing and learning together.
Like most comedy, there is an underlying serious note. In this case FGM. Go to Doe’s website http://www.vaudevilleofthevulva.com for more information about the work of the Desert Flower Foundation and where you can see her important, relevant, funny show.