They say loving is short, forgetting is long, and this show explores just that, as we follow Faith on her journey of closure, reflection and acceptance. Do not let the title mislead you, the majority of the evening consisted of laughter and perfectly timed comedy. Faith Brandon and Jonathan Young effectively and effortlessly bring us into Faith’s love life as a one-woman show, (Faith being the performative version of herself), in Love Me Or I’ll Kill Myself.
The staging and movement sequences worked perfectly with the narrative being told, and no doubt with Young’s background and experience in this field. I particularly enjoyed the versatility of the table and biker’s helmet that was used reliably throughout, in creative ways. The use of song and lighting also gave momentum to the piece, as well as an opportunity to clap and wiggle in our seats.
What I loved the most about this production was the intimacy. Feeling Faith's eyes burning into ours, as she directly addressed the audience; having sympathy for the guy in the audience who became incorporated in her love games and having a detailed insight into her autobiographical storytelling. Ambitious, touching and entertaining, Love Me Or I’ll Kill Myself is an asset to contemporary devised work. Whether you’ve never loved, lost the love of your life or happily settled, this show gives the opportunity to bring everyone together for an evening of entertainment.
The show is part of Homecoming: A New Theatre Festival running at the White Bear Theatre until this Saturday.
Review: Isabelle Tyner Photo: Alex Brenner