Review: He’s 6 Years Older Than Me, Lantern Theatre

He’s 6 Years Older Than Me is a one‑woman show written, choreographed and performed by Taeyun Kim. This short 50-minute performance sets out to confront serious subjects, including consent, sexual encounters and sexual health. As part of Brighton Fringe’s 21st year, the production, performed at the lovely Lantern Theatre, embraces experimentation and provocation, but ultimately struggles to shape its ideas into a coherent or satisfying theatrical experience.

The show leans heavily on mixed media, combining live performance with recorded sound and projected imagery. While the intent to use multiple forms is clear, the result feels underdeveloped. The opening sequence – candles being lit amid a montage of shadows, a washing line, and popcorn popping in a pan – establishes an abstract atmosphere, yet never meaningfully connects to what follows. Rather than drawing the audience in, these images prompt confusion, leaving little sense of purpose behind the symbolism.

Thematically, the show feels uncertain of its focus. It gestures toward a discussion of consent, touches on sexually transmitted infections and hints at sexual exploration, but fails to commit fully to any one of these strands. As a result, the narrative lacks clarity and depth. Important topics are raised but not sufficiently interrogated, leaving the audience unsure what the central message is meant to be. This is not helped by the lack of vocal projection. 

The most confronting moment comes with the decision to conduct not one but two STI tests live on stage. I couldn’t help but notice the audience reaction around me: one woman visibly grimacing at the sight of blood, and an older gentleman seeming unsure where to look during the vaginal swab test. Shock can, of course, be an effective theatrical tool, particularly when addressing taboo or uncomfortable realities. Here, however, the moment feels more distracting than illuminating. Without enough development, the shock remains under‑examined, prompting questions about its necessity rather than strengthening its overall impact.

There is no doubt that Kim is attempting something bold, and there is value in works that challenge audiences to engage with difficult conversations. However, bravery alone does not compensate for a lack of focus and execution. With clearer intent, stronger technical delivery and a more defined thematic through‑line, He’s 6 Years Older Than Me could develop into something far more compelling. As it stands, this is a piece with important ambitions that are not yet fully realised.

Written, Directed and Choreographed by Taeyun Kim

He’s 6 Years Older Than Me has ended its run at the Lantern Theatre.