Slippery When Wet - Baron's Court Theatre - Review

Picture this: you’re settled in for a cosy evening with your bestie, a bottle of prosecco, and a craving for some light-hearted entertainment. You’re not looking for a serious love-driven epic, but rather, the kind of story your friend spills after a few glasses of bubbly, recounting their recent escapades in the dating world. Enter “Slippery When Wet,” a one-woman show that’s a delightful concoction of romance, humour, and relatability – think of it as your friend’s tipsy tales with a theatrical twist. Written and performed by the talented Leanne Devlin, this production takes us on a journey through the slippery slopes of love and life, and it’s all the more enjoyable with a side of playful puns.

Leanne Devlin: The Baby-Faced Dynamo

Leanne Devlin, with her confessed baby face and radiating sharp wit, effortlessly guides the audience through a supermarket-based love story that’s as relatable as it is whimsical. It’s as if a chic-lit book got a theatrical makeover and decided to bring the excitement of infatuation to the stage. The story revolves around big dreams of a theatre career, a mundane gig at a Tesco, and an encounter with Love that shakes up Leanne’s world. And yes, Love is an actual character here, adding a touch of charm to the tale (even if he’s actually just an annoying prick).

A Dance of Energy and Laughter

The energy in “Slippery When Wet” is infectious, with Leanne’s stage presence drawing you in from the very start. From twirling on a mop bucket to recreating intimate moments with a yellow rubber glove that’s the stand-in for Love’s hand, the physicality of the performance adds to the fun factor.

The show’s lights and music are perfectly timed, enhancing the narrative and adding an extra layer of flair.

*^{Slippery When Wet, credit: Emma Copland}*

From Lull to Lively: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

While the show might hit a minor lull towards the end, it quickly redeems itself with a house party scene that’s an absolute highlight. Leanne’s humour, tinged with a dash of Irish wit, keeps the audience chuckling throughout. Scenes like the awkward yet hilarious waxing salon moment have you simultaneously cringing and laughing. As you watch Leanne navigate this comedic minefield with finesse, you can’t help but appreciate her skilful timing and her knack for transforming even the most embarrassing situations into moments of pure comedic gold.

Love on Solid Ground: A Heartfelt Reminder

“Slippery When Wet” isn’t just a feel-good comedy; it’s a reminder that sometimes, love finds its way into the most unexpected corners of our lives – even if sometimes it’s about a love for ourselves and our dreams, rather than a guy from Tinder. This show is a breather for anyone who’s had a long week and needs a dose of laughter. But it’s also a gentle nudge for dream-chasers, a sign that pursuing your passions is worth the twists and turns.

Embrace the Splash

In a world where love and life can be as slippery as the floors of a supermarket, Leanne Devlin’s “Slippery When Wet” reminds us that love is best embraced when we’re standing on solid ground. So, if you’re ready to dive into a hilarious and heartwarming tale that’s part romantic comedy, part motivational boost, this is the sign you’ve been waiting for. Prepare to wield your metaphorical mop as you dive headfirst into an adventure brimming with joy, emotions, and an overflow of heartfelt moments.