JUST LIKE HOLLYWOOD (I SEE YOU WATCHING) continues the decades-long collaboration between Director, Melanie Stewart and Obie Award winner/Playwright John Clancy working at the crux of contemporary dance and theater practice in America. Joined by performer Kylie Westerbeck, this new work centers on, explores and explodes the entrapment, degradation, and exertion of control over a young womans body in post Roe v Wade America. On a bare stage, using only props supplied by a demanding and impatient master of ceremonies, Westerbeck must justify her continuing survival and prove her worth, and her right to choose her own destiny. Is she a beauty queen? A brood Mare? A willing lover or a wanton whore? What is the combination, what is the key to unlock the cage she exists in, she has been legislated in and she will die in if she cannot escape? Maybe there's another way out. A rigorous, disturbing yet playful dance and duel, JUST LIKE HOLLYWOOD (I SEE YOU WATCHING) examines the trap ensnaring so many women today, pointedly in a post Roe v Wade America. Trapped in an invisible but all-ecompassing prison she is legislated in and being molded to accept, if not embrace.

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Show me the charities

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now