Review: Rosie’s Brain, The Hope Theatre

Theatre is arguably at its best when it comes from a place of truth. It is one thing to craft and perform a 70-minute solo musical, but it is a feat to also be able to command a room like Evelyn Rose does here. Rosie’s Brain, a show born out of the covid lockdowns, is a heartwarming coming of age story, following Rosie as she navigates the daunting, complex shift into young adulthood amidst dealing with anxiety and undiagnosed OCD. Rosie progresses through childhood experiencing tics and compulsions, an effect of eccentricism, as Rosie’s parents say, slowly realising she operates differently to her friends and family. As her childhood symptoms subside, new ones emerge that prompt Rosie’s mother (a standout of the many characters Rose embodies flawlessly) to explore the option of sending her to therapy, through which she begins her journey of self-discovery. 

A pink armchair sits centre stage, whilst a bedside table contains props that Rose pulls out at certain points, as well as a ukulele, guitar and a stool. It is simple but all that is needed as the real focus here is Rose and her musical and acting prowess. Rose is accompanied by a pianist, Musical Director Laoise Fleming, positioned on-stage, with several moments in which Rose interacts with her, adding another layer of lightheartedness. 

Co-directors Lucrezia Galeone and Josh Vaatstra handle the show with care and attention, clearly possessing a deep understanding of the material, style and Rose’s natural comic timing, allowing for her to truly shine. The inclusion of props to re-create pivotal childhood memories really works, matching Rose’s energetic performance. It is wonderful to see a partnership of performer and directors that clearly understand each other. Galeone and Vaatstra utilise every inch of space of the Hope Theatre, seamlessly maintaining energy from start to finish. Audience interaction occurs throughout, but never feels manufactured, reinforcing the feeling that we are on this journey with her, not just watching it unfold from behind the fourth wall. 

Rose is an impressive performer; crystal clear vocals and impressive character acting alongside an undeniable presence that makes the show that much more enjoyable. Her embodiment of her three very different therapists is a highlight; each is easily distinguishable by voice, posture and demeanour. ‘Crazy Type of Way’, a duet with Rosie’s boyfriend, George (who also has OCD but experiences a differing set of symptoms), sees Rose sing both parts and is such fun to watch. The storyline is easy to follow without it feeling too simplistic. It’s clear that this is a journey, never muddled or messy in its messaging and presents a tender reflection of the often humorous ups and downs of life with a neurodivergent brain. 

The only setback is the repetitive nature of the songs, both in style and form. All are well-written, with some tonal changes as the story progresses and her life and relationship with herself becomes more complex, but more variation in this area is needed. However, this never takes away from how well executed and performed it all is. 

I left the Hope Theatre feeling inspired and eager to learn more about OCD and how it manifests in individuals. Not only does it entertain but it also encourages reflection, which means it really hit home. I implore Rose to carry on performing this show, with some tweaks perhaps to the musical numbers, this show could be a major hit. 

Directed by: Lucrezia Galeone and Josh Vaatstra 
Produced by: Evelyn Rose, Barbara and Bob Rumsby 
Musical Direction by: Laoise Fleming 
Tech by: Karim Sohdy 

Rosie’s Brain plays at the Hope Theatre until 8th February.