Writer: Ryan Stewart
Director: Tiah Bullock
Kinder = german for “children”
When you enter the basement space of theatre@36 to see a drag queen dressed in bedazzled lederhosen playing hide and shriek, you can only question what you’re in for.
What that is, is a beautifully warm story about the importance of listening and educating not only to ourselves but the generations to come on all topics related to sexuality and kin, told by the dynamic and sparkly Goody Prostate.
Goody is getting ready for what they believe is a Drag Reading Hour, until a phone call informs them they are doing a Storytime Reading Hour for children in the local library and is warned there are protestors outside. With only an hour to rehearse, Goody strips themselves bare, both physically and mentally in an attempt to put together a last minute act. Initially an opportunity for rebellion with Goody going all out DRAG, then a moment in scene, encourages Goody to reflect on their own childhood experience of sexual and childhood education.
Through the juxtaposition of familial anecdotes and historical fact, Goody vulnerably exposes the impact of the German historical context of Goody’s parents’ generation on their childhood and understanding of sexuality. It doesn’t feel preachy, or overly educational, more significant information, with Goody’s emotional stories alleviating the historical message.
One could never take their eyes off the powerhouse that is Ryan Stewart’s Goody Prostate. Their energy, presence and connection to the audience was enthusiastic, inviting and never faltered.
The synchronisation of the technical design was amazing and cohesive, creating a fascinating relationship between character and space. A breathtakingly stand out moment was a blackout in the space whilst Goody presents a star projector that illuminates the room.
Stewart’s writing hits many points that need to be addressed more in contemporary theatre such as sexuality, history, linguistics and childhood education. While these points are valuable and fit under the umbrella of history’s impact on sexual education, one could question if all of it was needed within the tight one hour timeframe.
Regardless, Stewart’s has created an iconic piece made for the festival season that truly everyone should see. Kinder is an exhilarating cabaret that turns into a historically influenced search for one’s inner child.
Runs Until 16th May 2026.
