one4review | On 11, Aug 2025

While many might be more circumspect with the word, Leah Renee, a former Mormon herself, has no qualms about referring to the Church of the Latter Day Saints as a cult. And, as she herself points out at the beginning of the show, there’s no shortage of true crime documentaries and exposés to back her up. But rather than listing everything that made her leave the religion, she’s looking to address a more interesting question – what made her stay so long?

Renee’s exploration of the realities of Mormon life, from the good parts to the parts which – to an outside observer – seem almost barbaric (did you know that Mormon’s can’t drink tea? How terrible), is eye-opening, funny, well told and, ultimately, very interesting. She presents a mix of stand-up, story-telling, audience interaction and several wigs to educate and amuse throughout the show. Almost every sort of joke is represented, from the lamest puns, to raunchy bedroom confessions. Ultimately you’re left in no doubt as to why it was a struggle for Renee to leave the church, but also why doing so was the only sane option.

It must be said that my personal viewing of the show was marred somewhat by a crowd that, presumably, consisted mostly of the walking dead, who barely seemed to react, let alone laugh, no matter how many perfectly decent gags Renee laid at their feet. I can only imagine the frustration of the performer who, near as I could tell, did next to nothing to deserve such a flaccid response from the audience. It’s true that Renee perhaps relied a little too heavily on audience members volunteering themselves rather than relying on the tried and tested method of pointing at someone who doesn’t seem overtly hostile, asking them their name and then telling the crowd to peer pressure them stagewards with a round of applause, which may have made them a little more hesitant. This was particularly noticeable toward the end of the show when Renee left the stage open for anyone to come on stage to say whatever they wanted and the masses reacted like a herd of deer caught by a searching prison spotlight.

Overall it’s funny, personal, and a good, solid piece of work. Some rough edges might need sanding, but under that there’s a real gem of a show.

****
Reviewed by Tom
Gilded Balloon at Appleton Tower
17.40 (1hr)
Until 24 Aug (not 12 or 18)