Tamar Broadbent’s new show, Plus One, is part of the Free Fringe and is hosted in the comfortable surroundings of The Counting House.
In this show, Broadbent tackles the monumental journey of becoming a mum through her signature musical comedy style. She navigates the emotional and physical gauntlet of fertility tests, pregnancy, and childbirth with a generous dose of humour and a touch of terror.
A Terrifying and Tender Journey
As a single man with no kids, I feel woefully unqualified to comment on the realities of motherhood, but Broadbent’s performance is a powerful and unashamedly honest look at the physical and mental hardships involved. This is not a show for the faint of heart or the medically squeamish. If conversations about bodily functions and childbirth make you uncomfortable, this might not be the gig for you. Broadbent manages to find the comedy in what, to me, seems pretty terrifying.
The plot hinges on a fascinating twist: Broadbent’s partner is one of those people with an extreme medical phobia, to the point of fainting at the mere mention of certain words. It’s a clever device that provides a rich source of comedy and highlights the show’s core theme: facing down your fears, both big and small, to become a parent. It’s a reminder that even the most reluctant of us can find ourselves on a path we never expected.
Musical Comedy at its Best
Tamar Broadbent is a talented musician, and her comedy is top-notch. The show is packed with original songs that are both hilarious and beautifully performed. Her storytelling, set to music, is impressive and showcases her lyrical and comedic prowess. The performance truly sings.
A fantastic bonus at the end of the show is an improvised musical round. I found myself wondering if this is where her talent truly shines. The improvised song about a project manager working on an offshore wind farm and a chandelier was absolutely fantastic, and arguably better than some of the hour-long improv shows I’ve seen this year. It’s a brilliant display of her quick wit and musical skill that leaves you wanting more.
Overall
Plus One is an honest, hilarious, and at times wonderfully horrifying show about the transition to motherhood. It’s a no-risk, pay-what-you-want ticket, but I would have happily paid to see it. It’s a show to bring your partner or your mum to – a shared experience that will have you laughing and wincing in equal measure. Definitely recommended.
Review: Tamar Broadbent – Plus One
Summary
In Plus One, Tamar Broadbent delivers a powerful and honest musical comedy about the challenges of motherhood, winning over even the most medically squeamish of audiences. The show is a must-see for its unique blend of humour and raw honesty, offering a shared, laugh-out-loud experience.
Tamar told an emotional and funny story. Her storytelling was excellent and I laughed out loud many times. Tamar was also a very good musician. Thanks Tamar.