[AD – PR invite*]
★★★★½
Kent-based writer and actor Julie Flower is currently performing a one-woman show at Gilded Balloon as part of the Edinburgh Fringe. Starring the performer as herself, Grandma’s Shop is a love letter to her Grandmother Hilda Flower, known locally in 1980s post-punk Sheffield as ‘Auntie Hilda’. The show takes place in a fictional family history group and combines theatre, real-life anecdotes and audience interaction. In each of the weekly meetings, Julie chats to fellow members about the research she has completed, looking back at newspaper records and recounting stories from her childhood, which give the audience an idea of what a remarkable lady Hilda was.
Childhood and present day reflections
It takes a little while for the format to settle in, with the transitions between the present and past timelines initially slightly unclear, but fortunately the format remains consistent throughout and by the latter half, the time shifts are seamless. This is amplified by the performer’s effortless ability to clearly separate her younger and present day personas, which helps add clarity to the script. The writing exuberates nostalgia, taking audiences on a trip down memory lane.
Spectacular set design
The Snug venue at Gilded Balloon Patter House is an intimate performance space and Julie fills the stage with shop rails, retro clothing and large poster print-outs of real-life articles featuring Hilda. The atmosphere is incredibly cosy, with audiences invited into a recreation of the shop, complete with fluorescent promotional signs that were universally used before the introduction of modern technology into retail. The set design is a highlight of the show, immersing audiences into Hilda’s world.
Naturally amusing storytelling
Julie is an incredibly captivating performer, drawing you in with her fun and cheeky style of storytelling. It is a deeply personal show and evidence of how much the performer idolises her eccentric grandmother, particularly in the flashback scenes covering experiences from her childhood helping Hilda. She manages to capture youthful exaggeration wonderfully, showcased in none other than a hilarious anecdote about ‘storage room landslides’ and looking for a difficult to find nightdress amongst bags of stock.
A beautiful show that tugs at the heartstrings
‘Julie Flower: Grandma’s Shop’ is what the Edinburgh Fringe is all about; intimate plays with a huge amount of heart having the opportunity to be performed on a global stage. This nostalgic reflection on everyday life in Sheffield in the post-punk era radiates joy. You can find the true-life fusion show at Gilded Balloon Patter House – Snug until 26th August (excluding 12th), with performances starting daily at 12:20. Tickets can be purchased via the Festival website.
Thanks for reading my blog today.
Love Kat xxxx
*My ticket for ‘Julie Flower: Grandma’s Shop’ was gifted in exchange for an unbiased review.
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