The Soaking of Vera Shrimp is a gem of a show and the venue, Judy’s Room at Holden Street Theatres, suits the intimate material perfectly. Solo performer plays benefit from an “in-your-face” audience, but they can be broken by it just as easily. Any sense of artifice, or of going through the motions, and the illusion is shattered. I can safely say there is no danger of that here. Martha is an expert performer and embodies her role as student, storyteller, and master of the room. Her journey from awkward schoolgirl losing friendships, experiencing soul-crushing loss, elation at a profound realisation, and back to loss and heartache is masterfully presented. The moment three facts are revealed about her dad is truly heart-rending.