Written and performed by Mollie Semple and directed by Kayla Stokes, Good For Her! is a sharp solo show that explores ambition, womanhood and trying to find yourself within a world fuelled by social media comparisons.
We follow 28-year-old aspiring actress Iris as she flits between ambition, envy and self-doubt whilst grappling with toxic family and feeling overshadowed by those she stalks on Instagram. Comparison being the thief of joy certainly rings true for Iris’ story, which Semple plays extremely well, as we see her “having it together” persona quickly deteriorate with her incessant need to feel like she is doing better than her peers, shown through her obsessive and constant doom scrolling.
Iris’ fractured relationship with her narcissistic mother, whose declining health forces Iris into a caring role, offering a painfully raw insight into growing up while trying to challenge expectations and pursue her dreams. Many will recognise the feeling of being belittled by a parent and never quite meeting their standards, which Semple captures with precision. There were occasional line stumbles, most likely first-night nerves, but they almost heightened Iris’ mounting inner turmoil as the story unfolded. Projections of Iris’ search history further emphasise her loss of identity in the age of Ozempic and social media. Iris undergoes little character development, maintaining a bravado of confidence and delusion throughout, which is surprisingly refreshing; we do not always need to witness a character’s journey of self-discovery.
Good For Her! is a darkly comedic play, enjoyable albeit flawed, just like Iris’ character, but her frustrations are certainly understandable in a world of appearances, which can leave you feeling small. Semple brilliantly captures anxiety, rebellion, the fear of failure and a constant need for validation in her one-act story. For those wanting a show that’ll make you laugh and cringe in the best ways possible, Good For Her! should be next on your list.
Good For Her! is currently playing at The Other Palace until 26th July; you can find tickets and more information here: https://theotherpalace.co.uk/good-for-her/
Reviewer: Gemma Prince
Reviewed: 21st July 2026
North West End UK Rating: