The comedy of the show (as well as Maria herself) cannot be overstated: her style of humor blends both subtly and “playing the room” in a way that feels neither too reserved nor too over-the-top – something that is very hard to do and which most performers fail at blending, but which Maria executes perfectly. It is clear that Maria’s drive for humor is altruistic in wanting the audience to laugh for their own sake – for them to feel good and share in her joy – rather than to serve the performer’s own ego and validation as is such often the case with those who perform any form of comedy. The show is consistently both comedic and sincere, giving genuine laughs, discussion about serious issues, firsthand experiences, and an invitation to receive the gift of Maria’s vulnerability, a combination all of which leaves a sense of genuine authenticity.
What I didn't like
A few of the text message slides went by too quickly for me (a slow reader) to catch, which took me out of the world slightly. However, perhaps this was done purposely for comedic effect – if so, that wasn’t totally clear to me, so perhaps a ramping up of the speed of the slide changing, until it reached a breakneck pace, would help deliver that joke with a stronger punchline.
My overall impression
Maria’s wit, stage presence, and vulnerability create a potent theatrical cocktail that you don’t want to miss. Baby Bipolar generates a warm and welcoming atmosphere and gifts the audience with the highest tier of theatrical entertainment: honest, entertaining, and an experience that will stick with you long after the show. I highly recommend this show to everyone. It is a wonderful night of theatre. And you just might learn something, or even be changed, by the end of the hour.