In Erstwhile Media’s final play of their “One Dramatic Night” at Augustine United Church, we saw Rhona O’Donnell star in Cosette Bolt’s one-woman play (Parent)ified. Based on Bolt’s own experiences, this play was heartbreakingly raw, looking at the impact abusive parenting has had on our protagonist’s life as she is forced to step up to the plate and raise her younger sister, putting her own life on hold. Directed by Oliver Giggins as well as Bolt, this play is dynamic, displaying not only the frantic nature of our protagonist’s life with the fast-paced blocking, but also the passage of time as we pendulate between her life in the early teenage years all the way through to her mid-20s. O’Donnell was the perfect choice for this role, engaging us completely throughout which for a one-woman show is quite the feat. She was an absolute stand-out, from tears to big laughs, we were taken on a journey in this incredibly powerful performance, which received a very well deserved standing ovation.
The show ends with a very lengthy list of affirmations – a direct address to the audience. Bolt herself says it – the contents of this play is not unique to one individual, all too many people can relate and empathise, and this ending really feels like a message of support and unity that we can take forward with us into the real world. While we are watching the specifics of one girl’s story, the message is universal – it speaks to those who still live with the silent weight of their childhood and with many a tear in the audience, this play certainly made an impression.
While still in the early stages of development there is room to grow, specifically with some of the sound cues needing a little refinement, but Bolt’s passion in sharing her experience speaks for itself and with O’Donnell’s stellar performance giving life to the work, the potential is immense. I truly commend everyone involved in this production – they brought such vulnerability and care to this work and for it to receive a standing ovation this early on in its journey speaks volumes. I cannot wait to see where this show goes and am sure the team will excel wherever they take it – nothing beats pure, unbridled authenticity.
Reviewer: Jessie Martin
Reviewed: 8th November 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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