The Maltings, Farnham – 17 July 2025
Reviewed by Heather Chalkley
4****
Writer, producer and lead actress Emmy Happisburgh is a powerhouse of creativity, with the skill to transport you back in time. Whether it’s a revelation or revisitation, you experience the rave culture of the 90’s through the eyes of a middle-aged mother, trying to recapture her youth.
Every generation has an element of rebellion, a coming of age, a voice for young people that reflects the macrocosm of society in the micro of youth culture. Louise (Happisburgh) now in midlife, bored and restless, has a moral dilemma. You are taken with her as she relives her wide-eyed introduction into Ecstasy and House Music, whilst suffering angst over what to tell her teenage daughter about her own youth. Happisburgh (Louise) ensures there is a steady thread of humour running through the production and is able to take the mickey out of herself in a way all grownups in the audience could relate to, especially the 50 somethings.
Happisburgh’s ability to communicate the essence of Dennie, Julie and Brian’s characters, through her physicality and voice is impressive and highly entertaining. The sound track is like another character, creating that 90’s vibe.
The serious commentary identifies the rave culture exemplified by a generation rebelling against the establishment, finding excitement, camaraderie and escapism. Thankfully Louise (Happisburgh), despite a false start, finds a great approach to talk to her daughter about drugs.
If this is your generation, go see it, you’ll love it. If it’s not your generation, go see it, get educated! This a great piece that keeps the audience engaged throughout.