Leaving Prince Charming

solo performance · written & performed by lara repko · Ages 15+ · United States of America

one person show
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Review by MARNIE OLSON

July 17, 2019 certified reviewer
tagged as: Brave · solo · funny · heartbreaking · scary · trigger warning · abuse · trauma

What I liked

Lara Repko is a gifted performer and storyteller. I loved the framing device of having her fairy godmother narrate for us – a refreshing new take on a solo show. I related to the many voices living in her head and the journey through her darkness as her Prince turns on her is gut-wrenching. Ms. Repko has immense vocal talent – she has more than just a series of funny character voices. Her voice changes in inflection, modulation, timbre and accent – and she executes this nearly flawlessly.
This show rightfully comes with a trigger warning – it is intense, and for anyone who has endured physical or psychological abuse, I say proceed with caution.

What I didn't like

I’m not a big fan of what seems to be a new trend in solo shows – in which the performer breaks down the already elastic 4th wall and gives what feels a bit like a PSA at the end in which they tell us they are okay now.
It feels a little preachy and I’ve yet to see a show where I thought it was necessary. Maybe because I know what it means to write, perform and produce theatre I kinda figure you’re doing tons better or you wouldn’t be up there.
But overall, this was still a powerful and courageous piece of work.

My overall impression

A triumphant and brave solo show by a very talented young woman.

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