Joan

Joan, presented by Milk Presents in association with Derby Theatre, is a simply stunning piece of theatre. A unique take on the story of Joan of Arc, this solo performance, with music, keeps its audience rapt, with its energy, ferocity and joie de vivre.

Lucy Jane Parkinson plays Joan with passion, naivety and intensity. Far from the frail and ethereal Joan of traditional art, Parkinson’s Joan is solid, dreadlocked, gender questionable and clothed in boxing shorts. She sports a strong a strangely endearing Northern Accent and while adamant in her beliefs, she looks to the audience for support and advice. 

Parkinson also plays the men in Joan’s life. Winner of Drag Idol UK, she appears equally comfortable and is really strong in these cameos, from Joan’s Yorkshire Dad, through the camp, Eurotrash Dauphin, to the dislikable and arrogant Judge, the characters are distinct and powerful.

The audience are kept involved and active throughout the performance (it is no use hiding at the back), but there appears to be virtually no reluctance to be involved. Joan (and Parkinson) is so darned loveable that half the audience were willing to go and fight for France there and then.

Loyal to historical accuracy, but with a conscious banner for gender issues (real life Joan being the poster girl for gender non-conformity), Joan is a funny, yet heart-wrenching story. Lucy J. Skilbeck’s book is superb, and the realisation of the show is first rate with an outstanding performer, excellent lighting (Joshua Pharo, Sarah Readman and Al Orange), thoughtful, intimate staging and excellent sound (David Lewington). The songs (also composed by Skilbeck) are movingly performed.
Joan was a constant surprise package, that I found overwhelmingly impressive. What a shame that the run is so short, I want everyone to see it.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Robert Day