REVIEW | One Year Itch, Barons Court Theatre London

Reviews

10 Jan

Written by Bronagh

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.

Tania (Anca Vaida) knows what she wants. A relationship and a promotion at work. In fact, she’s happy to give up sex for a full year as long as she gets that promotion… or is she?

One Year Itch, a new show by Andrew Phipps, follows the highs and lows of Tania’s life following her breakup with Gillian (Kelly Craige); from dealing with ‘bloody Betty’ (Tizzy Kanouche) at work, to dates with recently single Louisa (Jhané Gibson) who ‘just wants fun’, to dates with newly divorced Tilly (Buddleia Maslen)… and her overbearing mother (Jean Woollard) who just loves the shops of Piccadilly which says it all. Tania’s housemate and best friend Jayne (Iona McTaggart) is always there for Tania, be it to commiserate, go to the cinema with or to share a self care evening with. Tania lusts after actress Vitoria de Luca (Ozzy Algar), who she believes is her perfect match.

One Year Itch is relatable to many as it explores modern dating and the frustrations that go with it, particularly relating to lesbian courtship; ‘my boyfriend will be there and probably film it’ is a particularly damning moment. The show does not take itself too seriously at all, instead, it is a very witty and very fun show which packs in desire, attraction, frustration, and elation. Vaida leads an all-female and non-binary cast, keeping up the energy throughout and never missing a beat. I particularly enjoyed the snooker hall scene, where we were treated to Tania’s internal monologue as she is approached by Lyndsey, who it turns out is a man and not a ‘butch woman’ as she thought. McTaggart steals scenes with her hilarious delivery and facial expressions – very similar to Derry Girls’ Clare Devlin!

I would say that the story of One Year Itch is fairly one-dimensional, no meanings that we need to unpick as an audience, but it doesn’t claim anything otherwise. I found the show quite comforting and overall happy. The cast has an absolute ball performing and bringing the show to life. I love the use of fun pop songs, from Cher to Madonna to the people’s princess Cyndi Lauper. It gives a great sense of friends just having a fun time!

Vaida doubles as Movement Director, I am assuming responsible for the scene changes which include the cast dancing, twirling and crawling around with props. This is a great way to change scenes, especially in such a small theatre, allowing us to go from a living room, to a Moroccan-themed hotel room, to a snooker hall. There were times when I didn’t know where to look and felt a little awkward, likely due to being in the front row, but I do appreciate this choice and thought it was very fun. A special mention must also go to Kelly Craige who acts as choreographer and co-movement director. Her talent shines through, and really shows throughout the piece.

Overall I really did enjoy One Year Itch, finding it very fun and a bit like a hug in a play. I hope that it can continue to flourish especially as the short run is already sold out. If you can get last minute tickets – do it!

Running at Barons Court Theatre until 13th January 2024.