If you’re looking for a bizarre and hilarious clowning experience at 10 p.m., look no further than Paulina Lenoir: Puella Eterna. This show takes you on a wild ride through the stages of life, swinging between comedy, tragedy, and poetic musings. Performed at the Assembly Roxy, the show is a masterful blend of physical comedy and surreal storytelling, keeping the audience laughing from start to finish. This is a visual delight.
Acclaimed as a ‘virtuosic clown,’ Lenoir delivers a one-woman show that takes us through the life of the titular Puella Eterna. Her transformations through various stages of life, complete with ever-changing and delicious costume changes, are as hilarious as they are perfect for the character she takes on.
What makes this performance stand out is Lenoir’s exceptional physical and facial clowning. Her exaggerated expressions and body language add layers of absurdity and humour, making every moment unpredictable and captivating. From a baby’s calls for ‘mummy’ to a toddler’s playful hide-and-seek to a rebellious teenager’s drug experimentation while throwing shapes, and an adult questioning love, Lenoir manages to mix humour with poignancy, striking a chord with everyone watching. Constantly involving the audience, we become complicit in this visual extravaganza, and Lenoir’s skill comes in ensuring we mustn’t look away for a moment, or you may miss some hilarious facial or physical quirk.
Lenoir’s quick wit and bizarre yet endearing encounters with the audience are highlights of the show. At points, a brave volunteer is required, and by the end, we are all keen to be ‘chosen.’ Lenoir handles all interactions with surreal quips and charm, so everyone feels like they are part of the experience. Her surreal costumes and clever props add to the visual delight, complementing her storytelling skills.
By the end, Lenoir leaves the audience reflecting on profound questions about life, love, fashion, and existence.
Paulina Lenoir: Puella Eterna is the epitome of absurd clowning perfection. Lenoir’s talent and creativity shine, leaving a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to witness her poetic odyssey.
Runs Aug 9-11, 13-18, 20-25 | Image: David Pickens