Annabelszki
brought an uplifting and insightful fusion of storytelling, comedy and poetry to her show
a masterclass in observational comedy and poetry
The performance was well thought out and sensitively handled. Annabelszki's positive and cheeky attitude was complemented by subtle innuendo and honest accounts of someone who has grown as a person, as well as a lover. Her acerbic wit shone through her satirical poetry and interaction with the audience (especially when dealing with one heckler, whom she handled with integrity and positivity). Sometimes there were aspects of audience interaction that seemed to not work as well, due to one or two over-explanatory sections that may have held up the otherwise smooth running of Professional Breakup Artist.
Having said that, despite one or two technical issues, this did not affect the way she stayed focused on her own truth as she delivered an equal mix of hurt, happiness, self discovery and more. It was clear that she had learned from her experiences the hard way and was able to invite us into her world with no judgement, just a safe space to banter and transform what can be a complicated subject into a more accessible perspective. This in turn created invited reactions and suggestions that were full of empathy and compassion, which made the show unique and not the standard comedy or spoken word set of general quick turnarounds of quips to initiate laughter.
Annabelszki steadily built up the pace and maintained everyone’s attention without rushing. Particular highlights included a cathartic use of ripping up an ex's photograph, an unusual way of using a clothes rail and a stool, plus a poem that included the memorable line “catch up time”. These particular moments highlighted certain levels in breakups which enable you to see things differently than if you were emotionally caught up in the moment yourself. Also, her vibrant energy as she delivered each line left a positive impression as the journey into love and breakups continued.
Professional Breakup Artist is a delightful and insightful piece that will challenge your perceptions of love and dating, plus give a masterclass in observational comedy and poetry.
