As the audience waits for Squidge to begin, we are met with a lone red chair and an empty coat hanger that sits to the side of the stage. After being introduced to Tiggy Bayley, it doesn’t take long for us to realise that this is all she needs to create a tour de force. Following the life of Daisy, a SEN teaching assistant, Squidge explores what it means to navigate the tough parts of life while keeping your heart open. Assigned Paddy, a young Irish Traveller grappling with the death of his brother, Daisy finds solace in this unlikely friendship amidst her own grief. What results is a stunning commentary on loss, the failures of the education system, and how a little love goes a long way. 

The transition from character to character is seamless, and Bayley’s acting is so stellar that it’s easy to forget she’s just one woman. Comedic timing is everything, and Squidge gets it spot on with these moments of dark humour making the hard-hitting scenes feel so gritty and raw. In a world where nothing is guaranteed for her characters, Bayley can take comfort in knowing that her theatrical debut is a breath of fresh air in a world that, as she puts it, stinks of fish. 

Squidge, Pleasance Courtyard, until 26 August, 1.50pm.