Using a character Penny has been tinkering around with for a while now, she has put her Moosehead Award to good use. This show brings us the tale of Kathy Smith’s adventure to Maths Camp.
It was great to see the show develop the character of Kathy over the course of her journey. I noticed all the short pieces from the five minute spots I had seen Penny perform over recent times included in the final product. These helped to form an engaging and entertaining show. Kathy endured quite a roller coaster (or Sine wave) during the show. Material about fitting in with others, perceived intelligence and the social expectations of young girls ensured that we were not just laughing at the behaviour of Kathy, but also witnessing commentary on these issues.
There were plenty of jokes and references to keep former science and mathematic students such as myself happy. Kathy also made liberal use of a whiteboard to explain the world around her in terms of mathematical formulas and graphs. This clever touch was fantastic.
The use of costuming was a source of amusement as well. Apart from Kathy’s daggy corduroy ensemble, we were shown clothing items such as her hand knitted “formula” jumper, a number patterned dress and her piece de resistance, the Solar System outfit.
Penny’s portrayal of Kathy was spot on (although I’m no expert. I’ve never been a fifteen year old girl!). She played Kathy with the perfect mix of social awkwardness and excitability that made her a character that you could warm to. So much so that I was surprised that the audience weren’t cheering her triumphs, gasping at her revelations and “Aww”ing her setbacks. I wanted to and should have done so when I had the chance (Sorry Penny!).
I’m sure everyone can find something they can relate to in this brilliant show, whether or not mathematics and science are your bag.
For booking details go to Penny Tangey in Kathy Smith Goes To Maths Camp