Number 1, The Plaza at the Soho

Number 1, The Plaza is a theatre experience like no other. An unconventional, laugh-out-loud, shocking 75 minutes of two actors, one stage and a lot of fake poo. It’s something that just has to be witnessed to be believed.

Presented from the home of narcissistic drama queens Lucy (McCormick) and Jen (Pick) from GETINTHEBACKOFTHEVAN in an “evening with” format, this is a hilarious, wild and boozy joyride through their night that will have viewers gasping in genuine shock and belly-aching laughter. Interlaced with howling musical renditions from hit West End shows, this is a risky, captivating performance that reminds us that astonishing character performers, with no fear of pushing the boundaries of live theatre, are in abundance away from the limelight of the larger stage productions in London.

Any pre-conception that the whole scenario should not work is quickly dispelled by the genuine hilarity that comes from witnessing the gradual unravelling of two highly complex women as their evening (and wine consumption levels) roll on. This is a show that knows how to utilise the reality of human emotion to full force with laughter, tantrums, fear and vulnerability constantly circling the stage, giving the audience a peephole view into the world of two extreme personalities.

If you wait for something to happen at every corner of this show you may grow slightly frustrated. It is in parts repetitive, sluggish even, but Pick and McCormick are a formidable double act and somehow manage to drive the entire show with their unique energy and audience awareness. The naff cocktail dresses, ridiculous hair extensions, 70s era lounge backing tracks and the slathering of the stage in what we are led to believe is their own faeces – in fact combinations of ginger cake, chocolate and peanut butter – combine to form the sort of live theatre experience where you ask yourself just what is going on, how did you end up here; but does it really matter?

No 1, The Plaza is not for everyone, but it’s a got to be a hit with those with an open mind, anyone who can take it for what is: the exploration of a spectrum ranging from a very basic human existence to monotony to extravagance. Make of it what you will, but a trip to Soho Theatre for No 1, The Plaza is an experience anyone with a invested interest in boundary-pushing live comedy theatre should indulge in.  

Emma Brady
Photo: Ludovic des Cognets

No 1, The Plaza is on at Soho Theatre until 12^th April 2015, for further information or to book visit here.