one4review | On 05, Aug 2024

This emerging star from Shetland, Marjolein Robertson, presented the first part of what will become a trilogy, Marj to great acclaim, it was Panel Nominated, and part 2, O, is her offering for 2024. Don’t worry if you didn’t see last years however, each also works as a stand-alone show.
The show is about blood. A somewhat bizarre opening precedes Marjolein’s entrance talking of planning her own funeral from an early age, her growing up in Shetland, her Dutch mother, dangerous games played on the family farm, birthday wishes, sheep and Animal Hospital, of the interactions of Shetland Folklore, and getting ‘the talk’ from her mum, then separately from the boys, at school prior to the onset of her periods and this leads into the main thrust of the piece.
For years she had issues with menstrual cycles, doctors tried a number of cures for her condition, adenomyosis, where in extreme cases can lead to death, yet it’s not really known why, by the medical profession.
Talking frankly on a comedy stage Marjolein has a platform to highlight the condition and maybe some prompt action to actually find out why and how..
Robertson has once again crafted an excellent show, a performance that is cheeky at times, delightfully written and captivating delivered throughout. The melding of Shetland Folk lore with her own story, once again works and she has a wicked sense of humour with laughs a plenty as we have come to expect.
Already looking forward to the next offering.
**** 1/5
Reviewed by Geoff
Monkey Barrel Hive 1
17.40 to 18.40
Until 25 (not 12th)