The performance space at The Glitch feels perfect for this show. The audience is greeted by goodie bags filled with South Asian brand collaborations including burfi, jewellery and makeup. Whilst this is a delightful start to a show experience, it becomes so much more when the links become clear. Brown Girl Noise!
The simple white room, using black boxes as the only set pieces, allows for the four to create the awkward, competitive tension of auditioning. Directed by Akshita assisted by Zarshaa Ismail who were in the audience the joy and pride at the heart of this show is reflected on their faces throughout. Setting this show in the round enhances the experience.
The performers frequently involve the audience in the action with comments, questions and spotlights. At times being in the round is sharing in laughter with others, at others it is more emotional, as memories of bullying comments about unibrows, sideburns, and moustaches are recounted.
As the rivals realise they are fighting over a role that none of them really wants, the showbecomes a jigsaw of memories and stories. The four pick out audience members to explain the different kinds of aunties one might encounter in the wild, David Attenborough style β hilarious. This show is a witty, unapologetic, intersectional piece which is unflinching bold with its content. Not only putting Suella Braverman and Rishi Sunak on trial, but exploring the experience of racialised actors compared to white performers.
The chemistry between Mangat, Uppal, Domadia, and Zarya is beautifully built, the audience is watching four people they know rather than actors.
