Review: The “How Are You?” Game, Etcetera Theatre 

How are you? No, really, how are you?  

We’ve all been in a situation where we’re feeling one thing but say something else. We answer “fine, thanks” or “not too bad” when all we really want is to be honest. Robin Taylor’s new solo show, The “How Are You?” Game, follows quiz-fan Andy (played by Taylor) as he works through potential different answers to this question, reflecting on his own mental health while taking part in an absurd game show about his life. Confidently performed and cleverly written, Taylor’s show strikes a balance between light and shade, making you laugh but also making you think. 

This is a show that doesn’t shy away from the darker topics, but it earns them. The first half is genuinely funny, with props, music and audience interactions that introduce the game show world. From tearaway answers on a Family Fortunes-style board and a sample of TheCrystal Maze theme to a tantalising sparkly box in the corner of the stage, playful game show elements balance levity with hints of what’s to come. Taylor also multi-roles between the meeker Andy and a bombastic Game Show Host. In some of the quicker transitions the two characters bleed together, but overall, Taylor does a great job of shifting between tender Andy and the artificial Host persona.  

Andy is endearing as the awkward contestant, the self-deprecating friend, the bit-too-earnest dater. As he takes part in game rounds, alongside the jokes we watch him struggle through social interactions and overanalyse how to be around others. Taylor uses the solo show format brilliantly here to showcase Andy’s inner voice. He gives a window into his thoughts and the internal battle between putting on a front and being his authentic self. As well as setting up some great comedic moments, this leaves the audience feeling like a friend rather than observer, making the serious scenes even more poignant.  

Through mundane moments, like a Saturday night with no plans, waiting for someone to text, a surface-level phone call with his mum or answering the door for a delivery driver, it’s revealed that Andy’s depression isn’t caused by some big triggering event or an extreme psychological condition, it’s just the way he feels. Looking at things through the lens of these everyday interactions makes the mental health themes much more approachable and realistic. A great example of this comes in the second half of the show where Andy gives advice to a friend who’s having their own struggles with mental wellbeing. This is beautifully performed and captures that moment of realising you’re not alone when times are tough.    

Camden’s Etcetera Theatre is an ideal venue for delivering on the comedy, really supporting the audience participation and getting everyone involved in the silliness. The intimate setting is also perfect for the play’s darker scenes, creating a real sense of connection between the audience and Andy.  

Alongside the sharp writing, the sound design is fun, with jingles and an original soundtrack by Nik Ammar that elevate this smaller-scale production. Chris Neels’ direction also complements the script, giving space for the sombre moments and amping up the excitement when we’re in game show-mode.  

At several points, I found myself wanting to get up and give Andy a hug. Not out of pity, but because I recognised how he was feeling. This is another thing the show does so well. It has a fresh take on mental health that many people can relate to. It’s a tender and honest look at the topic that hopefully makes those harder conversations a bit easier to have. 

Written by Robin Taylor
Directed by Chris Neels
Soundtrack by Nik Ammar

The “How Are You?” Game has completed its current run at Etcetera Theatre.