Advertisement

2024 Capital Fringe Review: ‘Penis Envy’ by Becky Bondurant (5 stars)

2024 Capital Fringe Review: ‘Penis Envy’ by Becky Bondurant (5 stars)

Fearless Storytelling: Becky Bondurant's Captivating One-Woman Show

Becky Bondurant is a force to be reckoned with. In her remarkable one-woman Fringe show "Penis Envy, Monolinguist," the English professor and writer enthralls audiences with her verve, humor, astute insight, and raw honesty. No topic is off-limits as she weaves a narrative that explores everything from the 2016 election to her personal experiences with motherhood and sexuality.

A Captivating Exploration of Life, Politics, and the Human Experience

Navigating the Complexities of Motherhood and Creativity

Bondurant's confessions about the struggle to maintain dual identities as a mother and a writer resonate deeply with the audience. Her vulnerability and honesty in sharing moments like when her daughter said, "I want to kill you," and her response, "You are," elicit a powerful reaction from the crowd. Bondurant's ability to navigate the complexities of motherhood and creative pursuits is both relatable and inspiring.

Unraveling the Taboo: Sexuality, Politics, and Personal Experiences

No topic is off-limits in Bondurant's performance. She delves into subjects like circumcision, masturbation, and Freud's defunct penis envy concept, weaving them seamlessly into her narrative. Her fearless approach to tackling these taboo topics is both refreshing and thought-provoking, challenging the audience to confront their own biases and preconceptions.

A Tapestry of Time: From Childhood to the Present Day

Bondurant's storytelling is a masterful tapestry, as she effortlessly moves back and forth in time, connecting the dots between her childhood realization that all the presidents were men, the aftermath of the 2016 election, and her personal experiences with motherhood and writing. This nonlinear approach keeps the audience engaged and invested, as they follow the threads of her life story.

A Virtuoso Performance: Captivating Delivery and Exceptional Storytelling

Bondurant's performance and storytelling skills are truly exceptional. She holds the audience's attention throughout the show, with well-timed pauses, expressive facial expressions, and her own visible reactions to the content she's sharing. The production is further enhanced by a brilliant set design featuring original presidential portraits and a playful playlist, creating an immersive experience for the audience.

A Provocative and Entertaining Production

"Penis Envy, Monolinguist" is a provocative and entertaining production that showcases Becky Bondurant's talents as a writer and performer. Her fierce and fearless storytelling, combined with her ability to tackle complex and taboo topics, make this a must-see show for anyone seeking a captivating and thought-provoking theatrical experience.

Advertisement