one4review | On 15, Aug 2022

There are subtle shifts in the tone and emotion of this show, which Ms Davies creates without you noticing: we start out watching a stereotypical slightly disgruntled northerner during the introductory bit, who morphs into a young person with optimism and exuberance when she embarks on a gap year travelling. The real anger which follows isn’t – and shouldn’t be – subtle, and it’s delivered with the rabble-rousing intensity borne of deep emotion.

This is a coming of age story, and Ms Davies uses the structure and little bits of misdirection effectively, priming the audience to be comfortable before landing her blow. The show is tight and neat, with no unnecessary flab or stories just to achieve the hour. Ms Davies is a confident and secure performer, and delivered a high quality performance to our small, quiet but appreciative, audience.

There are good elements in this solid Fringe debut, with excellent story-telling, audience engagement and sense of narrative. The potential is there for an increase in the frequency of funny – which will no doubt come with experience – and makes Sian Davies a name to watch.

Reveiwed by Laura

Gilded Balloon Teviot
17:40