★★★★
Many notebooks in hand, Mimi Hayes is trying to reconnect with her 20-something self to figure out what made her tick. This journey of past self-discovery is not without its road bumps, including but not limited to the perils of online dating, getting assaulted on the Subway and a brain aneurysm.
Hayes has an undeniably magnetic stage presence, and she clearly knows how to take ownership of both an audience and a space. Of all the Fringe shows I’ve seen thus far, this one definitely had the most audience interaction, but by virtue of it being far more than just ‘picking on’ the front row to show off improv skills, it’s also the most interesting audience interaction I’ve seen. You effectively become part of the ensemble to Hayes’ story, as well as being lucky enough to hear it.
The actual narrative of the show was something I really connected with. As someone who’s 20s aren’t necessarily going as I expected (e.g., I turned 20 in 2019 so things got off to a weird start), a lot of what younger Mimi was feeling are similar things to what I’ve been feeling recently. Hearing Hayes’ perspectives on stage was both refreshing and validating for me, particularly because it deviates so much from the traditional view that your 20s are supposed to be the greatest time of your life. We need more narratives like this.
Throughout the show, Hayes’ switches between the viewpoints of her current and past self. Some of these transitions come across as a bit jarring but it is a small complaint for such a strong show.
I highly recommend this show, particularly if you are at a point, be it in your 20s or not, where you feel like your life is not going as you thought it would. I really hope that this isn’t the last we see of Mimi, this show has the potential to become a sensation.
Mimi Hayes: 20-Nothing PBH’s Free Fringe @ Omni Centre – Stage 1 18:55 (1hr) Aug 7-28 (free non ticketed) 18+
Review by Ella Catherall
