Giraffe theatre review: Grappling with individuality
With self-deprecating punchlines and a memorable protagonist, Abigail Weinstock races through stories of growing up different and swimming against the tide
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Eliana has always felt different and not just because her arms are so freakishly long that she could hide her newly acquired restraining order in the loft without using the ladder. Convincing a court (and therefore a crowd) that you are normal is always a cracking premise for a play, and this semi-autobiographical comedy by Abigail Weinstock (Such Brave Girls) is a lot of fun. Eliana rattles through her childhood and beyond, exploring the consequences of never quite understanding yourself and the power of a mean comment from someone who should know better.
Weinstock is both likeable and relatable, although it would be interesting to see her move beyond the self-effacing note she strikes for most of the performance. The writing successfully balances comedy, jeopardy and emotion and Weinstock does a great job building empathy and getting the audience on her side.
Giraffe, Pleasance Courtyard, until 31 August, 1.45pm; picture: Andrew Perry.