What I liked
The writing. Sharp, bold, beautiful prose. And appreciated the directing – having this show run at high speed is a smart, smart choice. I REALLY hope Devin continues to develop this, either as a fully realized stage production or screenplay. It’s fantastic!
What I didn't like
It’s been said in other reviews, but the scene transitions need a lot attention. They’re too slow, allow the breathe to be taken out of momentum and at times it appeared like those moving items on stage weren’t quite sure what order to do them in. Especially after climactic scenes, they’d sometimes take the air out. As big an impact as this play had on me, I think if the scene transitions were less or better rehearsed to get through quicker, it may have been even bigger.
My overall impression
Fringe is so many things – one person shows, clown shows, experimental theater, traditional theater – whatever kind of show you’re doing, it has to be either funny, deeply experimental, take wild swings, really go for your heart or be really surprising. If it doesn’t do at least one of those things, what’s the point?
Women Who Eat is surprising, funny and takes some wild swings and it makes the festival better because of that! This is a great play that while you might figure out where it’s leading after 30 minutes, it’s how they do it and what happens next that’s most important.
Laugh out loud gross, sharply written and I really appreciate the speed of the dialogue and action in this play. There’s little to no wasted space here – it starts at 8 and quickly ramps up to 10, but does take moments to let the audience breathe before getting back in your face.
One of my favorites of the ’26 Fringe. Worth your time.
