Review: Go With The Flow, Phoenix Arts Club

Being one of the 1.8 billion people that currently experience a menstrual cycle on the planet today, I thought this was the show for me. But I was wrong, this is a show for everyone. Truly the biology lesson we were all missing in school, this 45 minute cabaret performance hits the nail on the head. 

The Gynae Guru (Anna Toogood) runs this show, bossing about her cycle sisters and interacting with the audience throughout. She also takes the front line when it comes to the numerous parody songs littered throughout the performance, showcasing her wide range of vocals with songs including ‘Here Comes The Sun’ by The Beatles and ‘Holding Out For A Hero’ by Bonnie Tyler. But this doesn’t mean Cate Brooks and Martyna Wróbel don’t get their time to shine, butting in, making jokes and being very expressive throughout. The show wouldn’t be complete without their witty input and impeccable backing vocals. Equally, an affectionately named mansplaining pianist (Noah Pott) adds to the fun, spilling out factual information in between the jokes and songs. But don’t be mistaken, his moments only adds to the comedic wit and timing. His male voice in this typically female heavy discussion keeps the piece balanced. 

The creator, Toogood, has a skill for balance, making the spilt between comedy and education seamless: not excluding the non-menstruating audience members but inviting them in to laugh with us. Building a safe and welcoming mature environment though song and dance, her writing is something to be envied.

What a successful first preview for Go With The Flow; in just 45 minutes the audience experiences all 28 (ish) days of the menstrual cycle and although we do really speed through, the fast paced dialogue and the sudden outbursts into song always keep you on the edge of your seat. The whole audience is laughing, clapping or interacting with the performance all the way though. This gives Toogood a perfect opportunity to show off her improv without missing a beat. 

Performed at The Phoenix Arts Club, an underground treasure trove at the heart of London’s theatre district, the welcoming bar staff and tightly packed tables build the perfect backdrop for the show’s otherwise quite paired back set design. Definitely a beautiful venue worth revisiting. 

Not dissimilar to the audience, the stage is tightly packed but this time with musicians that play excellent renditions of popular songs. The addition of live music gives the show a raw element, benefiting the performance and giving the audience and actors something real to feed off of.

Once all the fun and games are over, the show does highlight some really important messages including the lack of menstrual education, support for people with menstrual conditions and research into women’s bodies. These themes underlined the whole performance, giving this overall comical night out a real purpose.

Leaving my lively night at the cabaret I felt uplifted and empowered. It sure was a night to remember at the decadent Phoenix Arts Club. With impeccable comedic timing and natural charisma, the cast of four proudly showcase a fresh piece of writing for old and new generations alike. 

Written and directed by: Anna Toogood

Go With The Flow’s next performances are at Riverside Studios’ Bitesize Festival from Tuesday 22 – Sunday 27 July.