Reviewed by Oniesha Ludlow
She Kills Monsters brings its audience a great script with witty comedic timing, heartfelt moments and fun references to the 90s. From the moment you enter the foyer of Marloo Theatre, you are transported into the world of Dungeons and Dragons, stepping into your classic fantasy tavern, with the creative team replacing Marloo’s typical stools for assorted wooden chairs and the foyer lights resembling the many eyes of a Beholder with references to the 90s through some classic 90s music hits also starting before the show.
Over the next two and a half hours the audience is treated to not only a story about what being a D&D nerd is like in the 90s but also one of family, acceptance and grief. These topics are not small areas to handle for first-time director Connie Wetherilt, however, she provides the audience with well-delivered comedy that balances out the darker undertones and real-life problems apparent in the show.
Leading the show is Candice Preston as Agnes, providing the audience with someone even a non-D&D nerd could relate to through her questioning self and, dare I say, "normal" goals and interests. As "normal" as Agnes is Preston still grants the audience a strong performance with a beautiful portrayal of what it might be like to lose not only your parents but also your sister and the variety of emotions that one could face, all while never taking away from the clever corny comedy, all of which perfectly emulates a good D&D campaign.
Like any good campaign, this show comes with an even better D&D party. Leading the party is Agnes’ little sister Tilly or Tillius portrayed by Sophie Boyland. Boyland touched the nerd in all of us with not only her own nerdiness but also her convincing teenage attitude and genuinely felt emotions of a character that was fighting many battles both in and out of the Campaign. Joining the party we have tough Lillith (Verity Lux), the stoic yet sincere Kaliope (Mary Carter) and the couch potato Orcus (Sean Wcislo).
One favourite of the show is Chuck (Luca Daniel), the classic nerd who isn’t as aware of social cues as those around him. They quickly manage to bring in the audience with a strong performance as the Dungeon Master of the show. Rounding up our leading cast is Andre Victor as Miles, who beautifully portrays the supportive yet slow-to-action love interest of the show.
Furthermore, you can't have this show without the five ensemble characters who not only have personalities of their own but also amaze the audience with puppeteering and ever-hilarious comedic moments. A special mention to Harrison Richi who stepped into the role of Steve with great character acting, and gave the audience a beloved side character to remember.
Lastly, this show could not have been without its amazing set design, well-thought-out costumes and props including dragon heads, giant axes and even some classic comic books altogether making you feel like you were actually in the world of DnD.
This show is a must-see for all those who are a little nerdy, grew up in the 90s or DnD fans like me, get to this show while you still can.
Reviewer Note: Oniesha has previously worked with some members of this production. Tickets for this review were provided by the theatre company.
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