Cora Bissett brings her autobiographical piece of gig-theatre What Girls Are Made Of back to the fringe after last year’s roaring success. Telling the story of growing up in a band and how that shaped her, she lets us in to her life the best way she knows how – through music.
Glenrothes-based band Darlingheart shot to fame after getting a massive record deal back in the 90s. With an urge to play music, Cora Bissett joined the band whilst she was still in school. Balancing grades and exams with backstage banter with top indie bands, Cora Bissett was living the dream. Until the world of rock-and-roll took its toll, she realised the risk of working in the music industry.
Through the high-powered music and electric performances, it is the moments that we see Cora’s vulnerability make it such a touching piece of theatre. Whether it’s watching her career slip through her fingers, falling in and out of love, dealing with her dad diminishing from dementia or suffering numerous miscarriages. Cora is beautifully rough around the edges with her fiery passion and outgoing personality. Her stage presence is encapsulating and those moments of endearing honesty as she delves into her sufferings is incredible poignant.
The cast do fantastic impressions as they flick from character to character seamlessly. Taking on the roles of Cora’s parents, obnoxious managers and even famous faces, the cast who also play as the band Simon Donaldson, Harry Ward are exceptional. I was even lucky enough to see the real drummer Cathryn Stirling from the original band play as herself.
We watch Cora follow her dreams, fight for what she deserves and all the moments along the way that make her who she is. Cora gives a fierce performance that truly shows you what girls are made of.
★★★★
What Girls Are Made Of is on at Edinburgh Fringe at Assembly Hall at 14:30. It is on at Soho Theatre in London in 9th – 28th Sept.
