I’d Like A Job Please – Paradise at the Vault

This show follows Sarah Snelson, a recent graduate looking for her first ‘real’ job.  Rejected at interview for the position of barista (‘it’s coffee, how hard can it be?’), she teeters on the edge of being drawn into a scam – a wellness cult – by an immediate offer of a ‘job’ (‘you only make money if you sell’ … ‘just read from the script’ … ‘absolutely, it’s all backed by science’ …). 

She’s bombarded with misinformation and prejudice from what sometimes seems like every angle, including a misogynistic get-rich-quick podcast. 

From the off, it becomes obvious that this is no ordinary comedy sketch show for although it definitely delivers the laughs, it’s also cleverly woven into a coherent, often surprising and thought provoking narrative. Accompanied by live keyboard music and supported by clever use of media onscreen, the character of Sarah Snelson – played sane, straight and honest in a mad, topsy turvy and ruthless modern world – achingly tries to drag herself through her days, trying to find a means to ‘survive’. 

After all, her opening plea to the recruitment consultant of ‘surely my degree has to count for something’ is dismissed with a sigh, a derisory chuckle and a roll of the eyes.  This is not the portrayal of a search for fulfilment or purpose, it’s a search by a young woman from a working class background for a basic means of earning a living, at times contrasted with the experience of her privileged friend who flits from one half-baked project to another.  Such an easy life, or is it? 

A student-led, part crowdfunded production, laugh at this piece you most certainly will – choppy punchy comedy scenes, great one liners, outrageous yoga moves with a nod to the late great Victoria Wood – but really, it might also be an idea to sit up and listen.  This talented young company has something to say.

Reviewer: Susan Cohen

Reviewed: 5th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: