Review: 6 ft (and) under, Etcetera Theatre

Camden Fringe

Jugs production’s 6ft and Under is a dynamic and cleverly staged production directed by Sarah Newton. The cast of four brilliantly combines chaotic humour with sharp social commentary to create a highly enjoyable production with a broad appeal. The intimate space of the Etcetera Theatre really helps to highlight the cramped confines of Abbey’s bedroom, where the narrative of the play takes place.

The play starts with Hannah (Alice Mogridge) and Abbey (Catherine Maitland) getting ready to be interviewed and deciding what outfits to wear – anything that screams confidence and emphasises their voluptuous bodies. The boisterous, loud and unapologetic Brigitte Mountbatten (Claire Fairman) waltzes in like she owns the place. I love how her weird assistant, played by Tom Wilcox, reflects the stereotype of inappropriate men on film sets. Whether this was intentional or not Tom’s double role as assistant and Zombie hits all the marks.

Fairman shines as Bridget Mountbatten, a reporter whose comedic timing and chaotic energy steal the spotlight – literally. A bright central spotlight is used to represent when the film cameras are rolling and this feature is utilised throughout, creating a clever juxtaposition between the most intimate aspects of the characters’ lives and the public image that they are trying to broadcast. The costumes, designed by Molly Fraser, could not be more on point. The pink retro 1960s vibe is reminiscent of the Pink Ladies bedroom in Grease, adding a nostalgic backdrop to the otherwise contemporary narrative. This is further reinforced by the cleverly designed poster by Mae Earnshaw.

Whilst Fairman’s character listens to both Hannah and Abbey speed through their dating lives in response to the interview questions. Some pauses during an integral part of a dialogue come across as what appears to be a line drop, slightly breaking the continuity, however, besides that, her performance is flawless. All of a sudden, the interview is rudely interrupted by a zombie outbreak, all suggested by off-stage groans and some excellent sound effects by Claire Matthews.

The comparisons made to the Covid19 pandemic are both clever and surreal. The claustrophobic atmosphere is a sharp reminder of the lockdown experience. However, this also feels very much like a shared experience and the use of humour provides some much-needed catharsis.

Another of the play’s strengths lies in its playful take on pop culture. A standout moment is when the characters debate the name change from Twitter to X in the midst of trying to learn more about the zombie outbreak. Under the witty comedy and sharp writing is an undercurrent of questions. Have we learnt nothing from the pandemic, do we take things too seriously and to heart? These are questions that sprang to mind soon after the show.

6 Feet and Under is a fun, chaotic, and highly relevant piece of theatre. There is definitely something for everyone here. With its great potential, this impressive trio of women have a bright future ahead.

Written by: Alice Mogridge
Directed by: Sarah Newton
Produced by: Jugs Production

6 ft (and) Under has completed its run for Camden Fringe.

You can read more about this show in our recent interview here.