Ellen Leslie
Written and directed by Raynar Rogers and performed by Magdaléna Škerenčák, Self Partnered follows Candice on her quest to find love. A thirty-something year old accountant, she ditches her comfortable evening routine of watching Eastenders with her pet turtle Mona Lisa and drinking wine out the bottle, to apply for a reality television dating show in the hopes of finding the love of her life. But while she is caught up in her glamorous dream of becoming a star, overdue bills and empty wine bottles pile up in her flat, and Candice begins to lose her grip on reality.
It’s never explicitly stated that Candice is neurodivergent, but it is clear from her mannerisms and behaviour. She loves maths and logic, has a meticulous morning routine, and taps herself to regulate. During her dates with Mike, we can see that social situations don’t come naturally to her, as she has devised a formula for successful dating, and blurts out inappropriate questions, like asking him about his history of mental health. The choice not to outwardly state her diagnosis is an effective one; ensuring that we always view her as a person, and not as a label.
The dynamic between Candice and her mum is brilliant. Her mum strongly disapproves of Candice going on dates, believing she should “fix her life” first, which Candice vehemently ignores. Škerenčák brings the character alive, adopting a snooty demeanour which directly contrasts with Candice’s relatable ways. Her body language becomes more elegant and commanding, and the small detail of her always carrying a cigarette is an effective one.
Škerenčák is a joy to watch. She is a very captivating performer, lighting up the stage and slipping between Candice and her mum with ease. She looks so happy on her dates with Mike, you can’t help but smile along with her. Her humour is natural rather than forced, and she is much funnier than the audience gives her credit for. Her flipping her mum off from behind the closed door after she nags her to clean up her flat, is a particular highlight.
The plot does feel a bit rushed and convoluted towards the end of the show. It’s not clear what is real, and what is her own inner world. Her recovery also feels quite rushed; there isn’t any explanation of how she recovered or how long it took. Still, her performance is so engaging it makes up for this.
Self Partnered had a small audience when I went to see it, but it really is a show that deserves more love. It is charming, hopeful, and painfully relatable to anyone who has ever felt like they are falling behind in life.
Recommended Drink: Wine, drunk straight from the bottle.
Performances of Self Partnered have concluded at Dundee Fringe 2026.
Please Note: This review features a show where another member of the Binge Fringe writing team is involved in the production. No incentives or promotions have been offered to cover this show, and Conflict of Interest measures have been taken in the editorial process to ensure an impartial, fair review.
Clara Sunset
Salvador Kent
