Writer: Panti Bliss
Director: Phillip McMahon
The Queen of Ireland sets the stage a glitter with shimmer and curves in this one woman half comedy show half rallying cry. Panti Bliss starts the show as large as life as ever, with a couple of tongue in cheek anecdotes from her unquestionably interesting journey through the world, but from early on she alludes to the sensitive and endearing heart of the show – what is she for now? Over the course of a quick hour, the audience is moved from laughing at sex toys, to falling in love with Bliss’s parents, to standing behind her as she calls them to action again in a world that demands it. It’s a whirlwind and it’s a lovely way to spend an evening.
Resplendent in a light reflecting dress, outfitted by James David Seaver, Bliss tells snappily written stories that have the audience in fits of laughter, but it’s the middle of the show that draws the crowd to her. Reminding the room of how far Ireland has come in the course of her lifetime, Bliss is able to draw out feelings of pride, shame, celebration, and fear all in quick succession, and it’s moving to say the least. By the end, there’s no question about what Panti Bliss is for now, and the answer is as satisfying as everything else about her.
Runs until 3rd December
The Review's Hub Score
Glittering and Glorious
