Little Boxes, Alphamum Productions Review
Written by Cathie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.
It is human nature to judge. Many studies say that we form set opinions and create a ‘box of expectations’ about every stranger we encounter within 1 minute. Even Shakespeare discusses the 7 stages of life from mewling schoolboy to withering dotage. Therefore Little Boxes, a one woman show performed by Joann Condon, does not seek to invent what is new but seeks to explore and redefine her own boxes.
The show showcases the fragile cardboard boxes that form Condon’s life, both work and family related. She has many frank discussions around defying societal expectations, her social background as a Cockney Eastender, the xenophobia directed towards her Irish parents, the trauma of convent schools, others fatphobia to her weight, and a distinct lack of singing prowess, that set her apart from the typical actor stereotype. Despite these challenges, she describes succumbing to peer pressure from a school mate and joining drama classes. However, with the guidance of an inspiring teacher and the influence of Boy George on Top of the Pops, she managed to shatter her self-imposed limitations and carve out a thriving acting career, including performing in Little Britain, albeit with a humorous acknowledgment of her inability to excel in musicals. At one point an audience led discussion of awkward conversations at parties showcases the challenges of acting on screen. Much of the discussion led by Condon is what many of the audience will have experienced, from the trauma of the school run, strange interactions with neighbours to awkwardly competitive parents on Sports Day. Condon also does not avoid sentiment as she discusses grief, parental loss and the challenges in raising her children. This topic is broached well without veering into cloying territory yet is incredibly moving to watch. Each box has its own theme and colour scheme, her motherhood box is covered in joyful painted handprints, and at one point is bashed into chaos with a parent’s righteous anger at wanting to save her children from being boxed into identities and experiences they do not want.
This show is refreshingly frank, warm and surprisingly comforting in its intimate atmosphere. There are times and places where we all put both others and ourselves in boxes and it's reassuring to see someone break free from their confines and ready to ride the rollercoaster of life freely and with wild joy. This is a show that will make you laugh, cry and everything in between. It is a show with such a profound heart that I think all need to see it, whatever your age or life situation, as your life will be so much better having experienced it.
At New Wimbledon Theatre Studio 27th April 2024
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
