Barbara (and Kenneth) — Greenside @ George Street

She’s the blonde, bold, pink-loving doll who needs no introduction: Barbara (not known by her other name in this show due to trademark reasons).

But she also has an absolutely stacked CV, with more than 100 different jobs under her brightly coloured belt ranging from Olympic gymnast to presidential candidate, so why isn’t that what people choose to talk about?

Now, she’s putting on a one-woman musical show to tell us all about her fight to prove women can do or be anything they set their mind to — oh, and her best accessory/boyfriend Kenneth will also pop along to say hello.

Deanna Giulietti stars as the titular life-sized doll, and she’s an absolute revelation.

Telling us stories of her rich career tapestry, while also weaving in real-life examples of historical injustices other women in similar positions have faced, Giulietti is utterly captivating from the moment she struts onto the stage.

Combining warmth, kindness, and a surprising amount of humour, her performance as Barbara makes you truly understand how she can do anything she puts her mind to — and helps you believe you can do the same.

As for how she performs Laws & Leavitt’s charming musical numbers? My word, can this woman sing! Every song is pitch-perfect, whether she’s singing a rousing anthem about embracing the “boob revolution” or showing a more tender side in a slower number about being unapologetic in who she is. I could have listened to her all day, and would love to see her on a West End stage soon.

Meanwhile, Jack Shapiro is a joy to watch as her doting beau, and his one solo song about confirming the fact he’s definitely heterosexual is a crowd pleaser.

This show is currently on at 11am, making it a great one to bring children along to. I for one couldn’t think of a more upbeat and heartwarming way to kick off a day at the Fringe, and I enjoyed seeing the glee in the faces of younger audience members as Barbara reassured them they can do anything just like her.

For 50 minutes of smiles and fuzzy feelings to start your day the right way, Barbara (and Kenneth) is just the ticket.

Playing until 17th August, https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/barbara-and-kenneth

Reviewer: Olivia Cox

Reviewed: 12th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: