30 and Out – Pleasance, London

Writer: Kit Sinclair

Following a successful sell-out Brighton Fringe run, Kit Sinclair’s solo show 30 and Out is spending this week in London at The Pleasance, ahead of concluding its mini-tour at 53Two in Manchester. Presented by Prentice Productions, and assisted by her real-life partner, Sinclair’s autobiographical show is tender, sexy and a genuine laugh-out-loud event.

30 and Out, as the name suggests, charts Sinclair’s journey of coming-out at a slightly belated age. She navigates the impact of her ‘decades late’ self-discovery as she reflects on what she has lost, mourns what could have been and, above all, wonders what on earth happens now. Playing herself, though assisted by projections and recorded interviews which echo throughout the space, Sinclair wades through insecurities and preconceived notions to construct a new, albeit uneasy, sense of identity.

Sinclair is a true entertainer; charismatically commanding the stage throughout with skilfully refined wit and physical humour. Whether multi-roling, singing with a ukulele, or getting sexy on stage (much to the audience’s delight), Sinclair is endlessly watchable and consistently has the crowd under her control. Her writing, also, demonstrates a strong point of view and she clearly understands the audience she wants to engage, providing nuanced takes on the queer experience, but also female sexuality in particular. The narrative is presented in a way which is simultaneously personal and universal, spotlighting the details which define her own experience whilst also making space and giving time to community-wide issues. This results in a very touching and relatable hour of storytelling.

30 and Out is a fantastic celebration of queer women and non-binary folk, and heartfelt proof that being true to yourself doesn’t have an expiration date. For someone so accomplished at their craft, and with clear audience demand, it is almost surprising not to see any dates lined up for Sinclair at the Edinburgh Fringe. Perhaps another year – as they say good things come to those who wait, and Sinclair’s hilarious presentation is very, very good.

Runs until 3 June 2023