My overall impression
90s teen angst can be rocky territory if not done right, thankfully Riot Grrrl by Louisa Hill is just the right amount of angst with an abundance of teenage idealism and a bucket load of punk rock. Although the script is flawed (needs some more character development and the ending needs re-working), director Scott Marden and his fantastic all female cast make this an enjoyable and energetic production.
Marden’s fast past and sharp direction with projections of zines mixed with composer Diego Davidenko’s punk rock sounds creates the perfect atmosphere for these teenage girls set on changing the world. Poonsm Basu as the Jehovah’s Witness Darla is ridiculously adorable as she comes to terms with her faith and sexuality. Steph (Emma Servant) commands the stage and makes for a mean punk rocker. Tiffany Mo as Harriet holds her own as the girl who feels used, not to mention Mo has great comedic timing. And Zoe Lillian as the idealistic and sweet Joslyn perfectly captures the romance of the riot grrrl movement, making you want to root her on.
Anyone who grew up in the early 90s will definitely appreciate this production.
