What I liked
The show is very tightly written and expertly developed. It’s only 45 minutes long, and even that amount of time totally flew by: every second is well-spent, and the story didn’t get bogged down with filler. Christina is a truly excellent actor— she has such a charming, captivating presence, and even when talking about the darkest topics, it’s a joy to see her onstage. The whole piece feels cohesive, smooth, and polished, and it’s easy to get wrapped up in the story.
What I didn't like
Honestly, I don’t really have anything! Sorry :/
My overall impression
“The Bathroom Diaries” is hands-down one of the best solo shows I’ve ever seen. Christina Marie Leonard’s thoroughly intimate depiction of her own mental and physical health is so compellingly honest: she invites the audience to know her through a level of vulnerability that would scare a lot of even the most seasoned artists. The show strikes the perfect balance of discussing difficult, highly personal topics without becoming a brutal, heavy sobfest, and the way that wit and levity play into the story creates a safe space for the audience to laugh alongside Christina despite the tough subject matter. For a show about addiction, eating disorders, and chronic illness, it feels oddly… welcoming: like a close friend is opening up to you about their life story. This piece is so special, and I loved getting to experience it.
