Lyric Theatre – until 30 September 2023
Reviewed by Claire Roderick
5*****
Lauryn Redding’s bloody brilliant gig musical is a breath of fresh air in the West End. Writer composer and performer Redding’s semi-autobiographical story of finding first love behind the counter of Chips and Dips is heartfelt and hilarious.
Posh southerner Eve, working in Chips and Dips before going to Oxford to study medicine, fascinates Lauryn from the moment she sees her. As the summer rolls by, their relationship develops and Lauryn falls in love. However, they keep their relationship secret – which is an exciting game at first for Lauryn, but she is ready for more. Unfortunately, Eve’s parents have her future planned out – university, husband, kids – will Eve be brave enough to be true to herself? Lauryn has nobody she can talk to about her feelings and sexuality, and the laddish atmosphere at work means hiding the relationship is safer.
Redding performs her story with wonderful humour and heart. Her songs fit seamlessly into the performance, usually at moments of great emotion where pain or ecstasy cannot be expressed with words – and they are beautiful. Redding effortlessly captures the recklessness and heart-flipping moments of love and devastatingly portrays the isolation, pain and confusion without an ally.
Bryony Shanhan’s direction and Yandass Ndloyu’s movement direction channel Redding’s energy and amazing physicality as she moves to different platforms around the stage. Redding’s portrayal of different characters is quirky, funny and captivating – simply glorious.
Heartwarming and triumphantly joyful, Bloody Elle is an unforgettable show.