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Pros: Issy Knowles is both funny and captivating.
Cons: Topics like malnutrition and drug abuse could be disturbing for some. The hard-hitting autobiographical confessions of a former model, shared with self-irony.
Summary
Rating
Excellent
Meanwhile, almost talking to herself, she begins to recall episodes from the past few months and some of the characters she has come across.
Her best friend is also a model, albeit a less popular one, and this makes her feel really good about herself. Playing the dating roulette, she has a clear idea of the sort of men she should go for – choosing a male model who’s posting selfies on Instagram over one who’s holding a book. Sex is often an expedient to fill the silence of a partner who hasn’t got much to say.
Elaborating on the difference that an inch can make for a model – whether this relates to her height or her waist measurement – she lists the main ingredients for a successful cover girl: resting bitchface, cocaine and no tits. The comedy effect is guaranteed but leaves a bitter aftertaste.
With Fashion Week already started and her agent constantly barking over the phone, Issy’s hopes for a booking are gradually fading, whilst super-skinny socialite Olivia reappears at every public event as an eternal reminder of her own misery. Feeling like cattle and forced to have meals that consist of half a grapefruit and hot water with lemon she’s on the brink of a meltdown.
Model Behaviour is an autobiographical dark comedy, written and performed by former model turned theatre-maker Issy Knowles. Exploring timely issues, like the power play of male professionals in a female-dominated industry, this is a funny and hard-hitting monologue, which comes to the empowering conclusion that self-respect is more important than physical appearance.
Author: Issy Knowles
Director: Rachael Head
Producer: Marked Productions
Booking Information: This show has now completed its run
