by Zahid Fayyaz

Having previously created highly acclaimed solo shows in the last year, friends Frankie Thompson and Liv Ello have joined forces to produce a two-hander. Set in the aftermath of a nuclear apocalypse, the pair play survivors trying to determine who they are and how they fit into this new world. It is a clear nod towards Waiting for Godot. However, this narrative is very loose, and gives way to scenes that are both very funny and moving. These share the pair’s feelings towards society’s expectations on gender and the shape of bodies.

Using recorded footage, lip syncing, mime and sketch comedy, this show is very funny in some parts, and very emotional in others. Thompsons’ experience of an eating disorder and Ello’s of gender dysphoria are portrayed throughout the show in a sympathetic and theatrically bold way. Clips of Andrew Tate, Simon Cowell and reality TV show victim Lena Zavaroni are used to build up the picture of a cruel society forcing conformity on people who are not comfortable with this. A surprising mash up of the Last Supper with a popular reality show is one of the highlights. Both Thompson and Ello give great performances throughout in what is no doubt a very personal piece of work.

This is another artistic hit from the Soho Theatre, who are presenting an extremely strong theatre
piece here and in the rest of their current season. This production is worth watching now or on any subsequent tour the pair may undertake.

The Body Show runs through 14 October.

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