The Communists Are in the Funhouse

The Communists Are in the Funhouse is a devised performance work about the history of hysteria, the experience of periods and the lived experience of women, told through personal experience, video, drama and movement.

The title comes from one of many euphemisms for the time of menstruation. Similar in theme and broad style to its closest theatrical neighbour, Unrule at the Blueroom, this is a vastly different experience, and the two are an interesting theatrical pairing for those who are lucky enough to see both in quick succession.

A cast of seven women, diverse in age, background, colouring and body type, work well together, with six forming an ensemble, and the seventh, Dawn Crabb, sitting outside as a sharer of history, a wry herstorian come entertainer.

Highlights include Maxine Singh’s moving opening to the show, Angela Mahlatjie’s story of the white couch, Amy Welsh's cynical stand-up routine and Sankari Sivaramalingam’s tale of the temple and tradition, with lovely work throughout from Sabrina Seconi and Maxine Singh. The cast work very well together and the action is beautifully paced, with a well constructed order and well edited action.

Retro film touches are used to great effect and the red balloon filled set is interesting, and fittingly both annoying and unpredictable

Tempest, which is a consciously feminist company, has once again produced a quality production, that addresses issues important to women, with an all female cast and crew.

Kimberley Shaw