Julia Stephens’ ‘ROOMIES’ is disarmingly honest and beautifully delivered
ROOMIES, a one-woman testimonial exploring struggles with control, identity and mental health, is the type of show I tend to treat with a little caution. I find this category of performance often at risk of glamorizing difficult experiences, and occasionally becoming a series of confessions more helpful for the performer than for their audience. However, writer and performer Julia Stephens never falls into these traps, rather, ROOMIES strikes an excellent balance between realistic portrayal and responsible storytelling. What results is an entirely believable storyline that doesn’t shy away from hard truths, but is ultimately a moving, hopeful watch.
We follow 30 year old Sophie, a burnt out ex-it-girl as she is admitted to a psychiatric unit, and must share a room with naive yet loveable 18 year old Molly, who has schizophrenia. Stephens brings both of these roles to life, showcasing her versatility, and forms a compelling dynamic where both characters find unexpected solace in their differences. ROOMIES is brilliantly designed, utilising tech elements and a fantastic playlist to move seamlessly through the writing’s well-paced developments. Stephens is incredibly grounded in her performance, leading us through complex emotional experiences yet ensuring each beat hits home with ease. It is a pleasure to watch her.
I enjoyed that Sophie’s journey into the psychiatric unit was left somewhat ambiguous, as was her reliability as a narrator. Stephens’ commitment to creating a character who was occasionally shallow and not wholly likeable, but nevertheless won our pathos, was admirable. However, I felt there was perhaps slightly more room to engage with the external pressures or backstory elements that led Sophie to her current position, just to allow us to see through her eyes a little more clearly as the story develops.
I am sure this show will be relatable for many audience members and offer an opportunity to face feelings that can be easier to push down. I am glad to have heard this story, and to have witnessed Stephens’ accomplished performance.
SHOW LISTING: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/roomies
LISTING INFORMATION
Venue: Underbelly (Jersey) Bristo Square
Dates: Aug 5th -31st (exl 18th)
Time: 13:00 (60 mins)
Ticket prices: £12.50 / concessions £11.50
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / http://www.edfringe.com
Suitable for 14+
I can’t wait to see this next week!