Midgitte Bardot’s Personal Spot is a kaleidoscope of different arts from political satire to manic dance bordering on insanity. The way the audience were involved from start to finish was glorious, their engagement brilliant, and a major factor why the joy was so enjoyable.
For those not familiar, Midgett Bardot is the alter-ego of artist Tamm Reynolds. Their show Personal Spot – which I saw at the Music Work Hub, Gloucester – is an evening of drag, song, and dance.
Progressive
The show excelled through its progressive style. It was wonderful to think how 100 years ago such a show would not have been possible and this can bring optimism to an often dark and depressing world.
Some of the content involved items that are radical even for today’s progressive inclusive theatre scene. The acts were colourful and featured many a bright light and loud noise, with even the stagehands being brought on to enjoy the wonderful atmosphere.
The show took place on the Valentine’s Day eve and, fittingly, one of the acts talked about their heart having been broken and used the stage as an excellent vehicle to express their defeatist feelings. Another performer, on the other hand, was vibrant, loud, and very much proud to be on the stage, seeming borderline insane but then bringing the audience back to sanity with some political satire mocking the current government.
Another striking act was a involved dance resembling a lap dance. The act was a little risqué but with an audience of 16 and above was somewhat appropriate. It was incredibly flamboyant – but then which act in Midgitte Bardot’s cannon wasn’t!
As the host, Midgitte Bardot has a great voice and knows that their singing capability is not limited.
Representation
My perspective as someone of short stature is that a show like this demonstrates the progress of short-statured people in society – we were once an object of ridicule and laughter, but are now very much involved, included and accepted. What a relief! The political views expressed were often radical and controversial, but the world needs to get to a place where it is okay to disagree and see different perspectives and views, to debate, and then move on with our lives.
For anyone interested in such creative arts and a production like Midgitte Bardot’s Personal Spot, catch their new show, Shooting From Below, at the Royal Festival Hall South Bank Centre, Thu 9 April to Sat 11 April.
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