Review: Natalie Palamides: WEER, Soho Theatre

Natalie Palamides’ previous show Nate was easily the best piece of comedy that I saw in 2018. An examination of toxic masculinity, it saw her take on the character of a hard drinking, arrogant man, though it quickly became clear that Nate was also quite the damaged individual and he gradually became sympathetic. It was a powerful, hilarious and deeply affecting production, and I recommended it to every person I knew (and many I didn’t).

Yet, despite my love for Nate, I must confess that I had some minor concerns over whether Natalie Palamides was the best choice of opening act for this stunningly beautiful new venue in the East End of London. Nate felt like it was so special because of the small space it was performed in and the intimacy that was created between Palamides and the audience; there was a frisson of excitement when an audience member briefly became part of it, too.

I was completely wrong to have any doubts, though. Weer is an astonishing work of art, and so exquisite that I’d be amazed if it didn’t receive rave reviews across the board.

The set up is that it’s 1999, only minutes before Y2K may well destroy the world, and Mark and Christina are in the middle of a furious argument, one which threatens to end their three year relationship. Palamides plays both characters, with the wig, beard, and masculine clothing of Mark on the left half of her body, while Christina’s more feminine outfit and makeup are on the right side. Throughout this ninety minute show, she jumps between the two characters over and over again in a feat of physical comedy that is often breathtaking.

This is a meet-cute rom-com; it’s a horror film; it’s a live action cartoon; it’s a powerful take on toxic relationships; it’s an exceptionally nuanced look at love – and it’s one of the finest shows I’ve ever attended. Palamides is a comedian-clown at the very top of her game, and one who has created something so astonishing that I imagine it will be extremely hard to beat by the rest of the incredibly talented comedians for which the venue already has dates on sale.

Palamides’ performance is indeed so strong that it’s very easy to forget that there’s only one actor on the stage. It’s the kind of production that must have required a huge amount of physical training as well, a ninety minute whirlwind where Palamides makes superb use of the huge stage, often bringing on props and furniture with the deft hand of a master magician. 

Another show I have no doubt I’ll be talking about for years, Weer cements Palamides’ reputation as one of the comedy greats, and it’s so unique that I’m certain it could convert the most ardent hater of live comedy into a fan.

Written and performed by Natalie Palamides
Lighting designed by Lily Woodford-Lewis
Produced by Steve Lock and Beth Reardon

Nathalie Palamides: Weer plays at the Soho Theatre Walthamstow until Saturday May 10th.