Bubble Schmeisis by Nick Cassenbaum Review
Written by Danai for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Bubble Schmeisis at Soho Theatre, written and performed by Nick Cassenbaum could be summed up in a few words as a show about Jewish identity and the journey of discovering one's connection to it. But in reality, it’s much more. This isn't just another identity play; it stands out for many reasons.
The success of this show lies in its ability to resonate with audiences, regardless of their background. It feels authentic and versatile enough to transcend Jewish identity and tap into the universal experience of self-discovery. It’s about the personal traits that define us, regardless of where we come from. Perhaps this is because the protagonist isn't there to simply assert his Jewish identity but to discover it—an act we can all relate to. We often take our identity for granted until we find ourselves in environments where it stands out. For me, my Greekness was never something I thought about until I came to the UK, where it’s the first thing people notice about me. It can be frustrating, but also enlightening, to see how your identity is perceived and how other, more personal aspects of who you are sometimes fade into the background because of one particular trait you’ve inherited.
In the case of Nick Cassenbaum, he does an incredible job not only talking about this journey but showing it—how a cultural background that might seem confusing or taken for granted can become a deep and meaningful part of who you are. Over time, you begin to understand how it connects you to the past and how its future feels uncertain. Cassenbaum doesn’t glorify his identity. Instead, he brings a playful, comedic energy that makes the entire performance feel intimate and honest. This approach only enhances the show’s emotional power.
Since the story is centered around the first time Nick attends a schvitz, the theme of nakedness adds another layer of vulnerability to the piece. At first, it might seem like a humorous note when Nick sheds his robe, but it’s far more than that. Once he’s fully stripped down (well, not exactly fully—twenty quid for the ticket isn’t enough for him to go all the way, as he playfully points out), he becomes part of the schvitz—a deeper, symbolic gesture of shedding unnecessary layers to truly connect with others. Nakedness, in this context, represents the act of exposing oneself, of being vulnerable, and of coming to terms with the elements of one’s identity. It’s a moment that speaks to the universal experience of finding peace in one’s true self, with all the layers peeled back.
Cassenbaum’s performance is nothing short of captivating. His energy and talent are relentless from start to finish. Danny Braverman’s direction complements the performance perfectly—everything feels simple yet full of meaning, with multiple layers that add depth and power to the work. It’s hard to look away for even a second; every element, from the objects on stage to Cassenbaum’s storytelling, feels precisely placed and significant.
The use of music is brilliant. It enhances the cultural undertones of the play while adding a dramaturgical layer. Daniel Gouly and Josh Middleton, the musicians on stage, help create a sense of community. Their presence not only makes the space feel less isolated but also reinforces the theme of being surrounded by others with shared backgrounds. Their playful expressions and contributions bring a satirical tone whenever necessary, further enriching the piece.
Bubble Schmeisis is a playful, heartfelt piece that, through humour, personal narrative, and audience interaction, leaves a lasting impact. It’s a show that allows us to connect—not just with the protagonist, but with our own pasts and identities, no matter what they may be.
At Soho Theatre until 10 May 2025
★★★★★
