With a title as bold as CVNT, you know from the get-go that this is not going to be one for the easily offended or those with weak sensibilities. And you’d be absolutely right. Welcome to the most unique one-woman comedy clown show at this year’s Fringe, where your inhibitions will be lowered, your prejudices challenged and your sides will be sore from laughter.
If subtly was what you’d hoped for, you’re clearly in the wrong space. The moment the show begins we’re treated to a disembodied voice singing “Don’t You Want Me” (backed with some deeply suggestive ooohs and ahhhs) before show creator Sophie Power emerges enshrouded in a lavish costume of bright reds and pinks. From the exceptionally on-the-nose outfit to the rich reds enshrouding the stage of The Gallery, a wild time is guaranteed. Power then takes everyone on a mad, chaotic, and oddly insightful journey exploring the power and taboos behind the word “c*nt”.
Power is a gleeful, grinning creature so charismatic you dare not look away. Her debaucherous humour works tremendously in her favour as she works the crowd with her low crooning voice and exaggerated facial expressions. She delights in stirring the pot and coaxes hilarious responses from the audience with ease. Unsuspecting punters are asked to participate in a series of wild and extremely silly performative acts; simulated stimulation with a pair of fake arms, a “lick-off” using two paper plates, a group anatomy lesson and a simulated birth scene are just some of the crazy things Power puppeteers from her audience.
The crazy hijinks of the show are incredibly funny and would be solid enough grounds for a recommendation. But Power also manages to act as a conduit for what can only be described as alternative group therapy. The would-be secondhand embarrassment instead becomes a shared joy and an affirmation of personhood. By encouraging group participation and for everyone to yell “c*nt” with abandon, she in turn helps lower the inhibitions and fears of the bashful and apprehensive (one audience member who came on stage literally remarked this was better than any therapy session they’d had).
Power is something of a mad genius, a provocateur like no other who dominates the stage with ample charisma and a masterclass in clowning philosophy. The subject matter never shies away from the boldness of its premise, and any preconceived notions of politeness and decency are twisted into a new and glorious whole (pun intended). CVNT is a beautiful hot mess of a show, as thought-provoking as it is outrageously funny. Truly one of a kind!
***** Five Stars