In an era where social media filters and impossible beauty standards impact our mental health, Michelle Pearson's "Skinny" serves up a masterful blend of cabaret, comedy, and raw honesty that strikes right at the heart of our collective body image obsession.
From the moment Pearson takes the stage, her powerful vocals and magnetic presence command attention. But it's her authenticity that truly captivates, as she navigates through a deeply personal narrative of growing up under the weight of labels like "puppy fat", “chubby” and "child-bearing hips." The 2024 Frank Ford AM Commission winner transforms contemporary pop songs with clever lyrical twists, using them as vehicles to explore the toxic landscape of diet culture and the $7 billion weight loss industry.
What sets "Skinny" apart is its ability to balance serious subject matter with well-calibrated humor. Pearson never resorts to self-deprecation; instead, she invites the audience to laugh along with her, recognising our shared experience with society's impossible standards. The interspersed vox pops, featuring both male and female voices, effectively demonstrates that body image struggles transcend gender, adding crucial perspective to the conversation.
The show's musical arrangements masterfully accompany Pearson's impressive vocal range in a tight backing band. But it's the storytelling that truly elevates this production. Particularly moving is her recounting of Mama Cass's story, revealing how fat-shaming persisted even in death, when her manager fabricated a story about choking on a sandwich rather than acknowledge the true cause of her passing - a drug overdose.
Part funded through the Mental Health Commissioner's 'Staging Change' initiative, "Skinny" does vital work in destigmatising mental health discussions around body image. Pearson creates a safe space for audience reflection while maintaining theatrical momentum throughout. Her journey from self-doubt to empowerment unfolds with grace and grit, never feeling preachy or prescribed.
The show comes together seamlessly, creating an intimate atmosphere that enhances the personal nature of the narrative. Each musical number builds upon the last, creating a powerful emotional arc that culminates in a message of hope and self-acceptance.
"Skinny" is more than just entertainment; it's a necessary conversation wrapped in the glittering package of first-rate cabaret. Pearson's triumph lies in her ability to tackle weighty themes (pardon the pun) while keeping audiences thoroughly engaged and entertained. This is precisely the kind of brave, relevant theater that the Fringe Festival is known for.
★★★★★