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A warm, relatable, funny and emotional one woman show about finding yourself in a world obsessed with labels.Summary
Rating
Excellent
Little Boxes is produced by Alphamum Productions, a female-led company founded by Joann Condon and Leonie Simmons to champion their writing and performing. In their programme, they express a desire to amplify the voice of middle-aged women in entertainment, sharing their knowledge and experiences. Little Boxes achieves this goal superbly, blending warmth, comedy, reflection, and emotion.
Condon’s one-woman show is captivating as it delves into the concept of ‘social categorisation’, where individuals assign and are assigned various labels. She vividly illustrates this by exploring the different ‘boxes’ she has been placed in throughout her life. From the outset, Condon charms the audience with her wit and authenticity. Her interactions feel genuine, not contrived. A highlight is when she invites a young man onstage to help her weave a humorous tale about the challenges actors face when questioned about whether or not they are working, playfully ending with the classic line many actors hear from their friends and family: “You should try and get on Eastenders!”
The narrative takes us on Condon’s journey from childhood to the present, examining the labels she’s carried – from ‘the fat one’ in her youth to ‘Steven’s Mum’, and the comical yet poignant portrayal of ‘the invisible one’, symbolised by a transparent box and representing the fate of middle-aged women. Amidst the humor, she shares moments of heartbreak, recounting the loss of her mother juxtaposed with her own entry into motherhood. The most powerful moment arrives towards the end when Condon opens her smallest box, revealing a profound message: regardless of the labels imposed upon us, living authentically is paramount.
The directorial decisions are commendable, particularly the musical choices. Despite the intimate performance space, the lighting design adds depth and vitality to the production. The writing flows well and has an excellent balance of pathos and wit. There is no high drama in this performance, but it doesn’t need it to entertain. The appeal here is the honesty of the writing and the expert comic timing of the performer. The audience is drawn into Condon’s world, laughing, and shedding a tear with her.
Little Boxes offers a cathartic experience, prompting introspection among the audience about their own ‘boxes’ and the societal pressure of labels. It inspires viewers to embrace authenticity in a world obsessed with labels.
Written by: Joann Condon and Leonie Simmons
Directed by: Daniel Brennan
Produced by: Leonie Simmons
Little Boxes runs until Saturday 27 April at the Studio at New Wimbledon Theatre. Booking details can be found here.
