not a very good story

This is “not a very good story” begins Stephanie, as she proceeds to directly address the audience about events at her work place. It turns out to be a fascinating story that has the audience engrossed from beginning to end.

Solo performer May Jasper, has developed a beautifully realistic character in Stephanie. Stephanie has been ill and has returned to work at a call-centre after a long absence. A little bit shy, socially awkward and somewhat child-like, she brings a unique perspective, and what feels to be unintentional humour, to what is a disturbing tale.

The story is delivered gorgeously awkwardly, with an excessive focus on detail, odd quirks of delivery and the wonderfully inelegant use of an overhead projector. Stephanie fumbles through the story, corrects herself and appears to be very self conscious, but she is very, very credible and speaks with honesty and warmth.

Conversely, this is an incredibly focused performance, which feels like uber-verbatim-theatre and the story, which emerges slowly, is almost perfectly paced. Wonderful drawing of off-stage characters, very nuanced character traits and an absolutely endearing portrayal.

The story emerges so cleverly, that it is best not to reveal too much about the plot. Frightening but very funny and grounded in truth - this is certainly a play of our times.

May Jasper has created a very unlikely, astonishingly likeable heroine, in one of the best single-performer shows at Fringe World. A wonderful character, excellent production and a very good story.

Kimberley Shaw