A stunning debut – Baby In The Mirror is an absolute must see representing queer parenting with exceptional heart
On stage representation is a privilege not afforded to everyone, but SecondAdolence’s stunning debut performance gifts this experience to queer couples navigating the complexities of parenthood. Baby In The Mirror opens strikingly with overlapping phone call conversations, offering insights into the concerns and relationships of the central couple Lena (Marie Sophie) and Joey (Zoe West). Sophie and West generate impressive synergy, crafting a tight performance while easily evoking their characters’ established intimate relationship.
Masterful writing feeds us snippets of a backstory in which Lena and Joey explored IVF, opening compassionate conversations on the difficulty of hormone treatment, of how experiencing absent fathers in childhood complicates interacting with anonymous sperm donors, of what to call yourself if not ‘mum’ and ‘dad’. Despite their loving relationship, communication barriers cause continual friction- a theme explored extremely sensitively and realistically throughout.
The scene transitions thread together episodic, highly thoughtful snapshots of conversations with inventive flair, marrying lighting and creative choreography to guide us from day to day. Motif was utilised to beautifully emotive effect, exploring the cruel grasp of anxiety from childhood into adulthood and how it can impede and damage relationships. This was particularly effective at the play’s end, where ideas surrounding Lena’s relationship with her own mother, her body and her freedom powerfully culminated through moving use of physical theatre.
A counterpoint to Lena’s battle with panic attacks and anxiety was Derek Mitchell’s reassuring presence as best friend and ‘spunkle’ Ollie. A real highlight of this story was its ability to consider every perspective thoroughly and compellingly, with each actor delivering truly stunning, openhearted and brave performances. I attended this show with my group of young queer friends and we were all moved to tears, cheering enthusiastically at a story that felt ours, at characters and experiences that are all too often absent from the stage. SecondAdolesence have crafted something exquisite- I urge you to go and see it!
Fringe Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/baby-in-the-mirror
LISTING INFORMATION:
Venue: Summerhall Red Lecture Theatre
Dates: 31 July – 25 August (not 11,18)
Time: 15:15, 60mins
Ticket Prices: £17.00 (Concessions £14.00)
Age restrictions: 16+