Eve Miller
This solo show is a biography of Tilly Wedekind, actress and muse/wife of playwright Frank Wedekind. It explores the artistic process, mental health problems, and the identity-forming impacts of abusive and coercive relationships.
It is clear that this is a passion project, and that a lot of care and research has gone into creating the production. It tells the life of Tilly, from her rise to fame, to her marriage to Frank, to her suicide attempt, and beyond. It is an ultimately hopeful tale of identity reclamation and strength in adversity, however the bulk of the play focuses on Tilly’s vulnerability, and there are many moments of confusion as to why she makes the choices that she does. The script is by turn too on-the-nose or too oblique, and Tilly is rarely portrayed as anything more complex than a victim.
This production is technically very impressive, and Merlin’s performance is a masterclass in multi-talent. She sings, plays music, dances, and performs magic tricks and costume changes that make my head spin. She also, miraculously, balances atop a large circus ball while playing an instrument and singing. She clearly feels a strong connection to Tilly, and this emotion allows her performance to sparkle at points, while at others I am distanced from her performance by the distinct sense that Merlin needs the audience to sympathise with Tilly, that the actor is keenly observing our responses to the character’s experiences and willing us to see her as a victim.
The production design is astounding, with countless costume changes (each beautiful and evocative, designed with flair by Maggie Morgan), hidden compartments and deft reveals of new set pieces, each brimming with possibility for fresh uses. Merlin’s skilful stagecraft and the keen direction of Miles Anderson stops the constancy of set, prop, and costume changes from becoming cluttered or confusing.
Technically impressive, admirable, and full of respect for its subject, Tilly No-Body is a labour of love, and an interesting biography of a commonly misrepresented historical figure.
Drink recommendation: Champagne, to toast to Tilly.
You can catch Tilly No-Body at Bramley at Gilded Balloon at Appleton Tower from 30th July to 24th August at 15:00 (60 mins). Tickets are available through the EdFringe Online Box Office.
Jake Mace
Lamesha Ruddock
Jasmine Silk
