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One never expects to attend a Fringe show and come out of it trying not to ugly cry. Yet there I was.
Fierce, powerful, multifaceted and unapologetically authentic, I Am Woman is the celebration of womanhood I wanted it to be… and so much more.
Created by Dr Jae West, and featuring an array of very talented Perth women, I Am Woman brings together powerful poetry, well-curated music and captivating dances in an explosion of, to quote them, “Yes, and…?” energy. Throw in a daring silks routine, some fire, and a Beyoncé montage finale for good measure, and you undoubtedly get a killer show.
Amazing showmanship (or womanship?) aside, we were also taken on a journey through the varying stages or manifestations of femininity. From primal to sensual to sexual, from childhood to sisterhood to motherhood, and finishing strong with the wise Crone – we were reminded that power only deepens with age.
For me, though, the true star of the show was the spoken word poetry. It was eloquent, evocative, and so profoundly powerful I was moved to tears. Resonating deeply with many in the audience, the message they delivered stoked such a fire in us that they drew hoots and hollers of appreciation from the crowd.
I Am Woman is a beautiful homage to the woman you were, the woman you are, and the woman you may strive to be. Heartwarming in its message of inclusivity, body positivity, positive aging and empowerment, it leaves you feeling seen, celebrated and just a little more emboldened than when you walked in.
My only criticism is I would have loved to see more representation of people of colour on stage. After all, a show celebrating womanhood in all its glory is strongest when that diversity is fully reflected.
Do not miss the final ever run of I Am Woman before their season ends on Sunday 15th February.
If you’re anything like me, you might want to nab their ebook on your way out.