KAREN review

The popular 2010s Karen meme that resurfaced with aplomb during the Covid lockdowns this is not. Rather, she is the office nemesis of our unnamed protagonist, whose boyfriend reveals he is leaving her for Karen in a break-up that takes place mid-Calippo at Alton Towers. The ensuing story, KAREN, helmed by Sarah Cameron-West, is a fast-paced one-woman show that will result in sore cheeks by the end.

After fully expecting a proposal from boyfriend Joe, who leaves her for her co-worker Karen, our protagonist spirals into a frenzy of rage and heartache. Writer, actor and producer Cameron-West navigates the up-and-down world of a break-up, from a touching call with her mother to the inevitable awkward first post-break-up encounter and a slightly overlong yet exposing dance break to Robyn’s Dancing Own My Own, where she attempts to pick herself back up again. Featuring a specific reference to a Müller yogurt that mysteriously goes missing in the office, this light-hearted solo show is hugely relatable and extremely funny.

With direction from Evie Ayres-Townshend, the production displays elements of Fleabag, with our protagonist talking – and sometimes screaming – directly at patient audience members who sit shocked and giggling in their seats. Bits of the set by Roisin Jenner, lighting (Oliver McNally) and sound (Sarah Spencer) are used nicely to complement this character’s journey.

Despite some slight hints of female stereotyping, our protagonist shows the power of being heard through a light-hearted show that never loses momentum. Cameron-West is decidedly impressive and sarcastic – with the rare skill of having no need for supporting characters.