Review

REVIEW: Tamsyn Kelly – Petroc – 3*

REVIEW: Tamsyn Kelly – Petroc – 3*

Radio Ha-Ha! talks Ha-Ha!

Written by Sarah Exton

Review date: 3rd August 2019

This year, Tamsyn Kelly created quite a personal show. She shared details of her life, growing up on a council estate near Land’s End, and her mother’s disability. It was a lovely insight into Kelly’s background, and how she became the person she is today.

From the beginning of the show, Tamsyn came on stage to a highly energetic tone. Apart from the occasional moment, this was pretty much consistent throughout the hour. Although, considering the story that Kelly was telling, I’m not sure if that worked in her favour. Personally, it would have been nice to have seen a shift in her approach to humour; just to break-up the set, and allow the audience to really process the narrative. It would have also added a new dynamic to the show, and greater authenticity to Kelly’s performance.

Kelly casually brushed over the possibility of being physically abused. This was mentioned in such a way, whereby it seemed very disjointed from the show. It’s understandable why a performer wouldn’t want to go into detail about issues like that, but it was almost done is such a jovial way, that it didn’t even land as dark humour; instead making the audience feel slightly uncomfortable.

The lovely relationship told between her grandad and herself, does lead to a heartwarming finale. However, it’s just a shame that on this night, the projector failed. Despite this, the audience cheered and encouraged her to continue; ending on an all-round good note.

Catch ‘Petroc’ at Just the Tonic at the Caves (Just up the Road), every day (except the 12th) at 8PM. Tickets available here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/tamsyn-kelly-petroc

Radio Ha-Ha

August 12th, 2019

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