★★★★
Using just a few laundry baskets and hand props, Kimberly Prentice reveals backstage secrets from Broadway in her one-woman show Unseen. Based on her experiences of working as a dresser when she moved to New York to pursue a dance career, it is a humorous yet inspiring play detailing some of the highs and lows of the theatre industry.
Unless you’ve ever been backstage while a performance is happening, you probably haven’t given much thought about what goes on. A vital role, the dresser’s main job is to help the actors to change backstage. While this sounds relatively simple, Prentice soon proves it is a difficult job requiring many skills. She describes herself as a ninja, who moves around backstage stealthily, armed with a utility belt stocked with everything from tissues and water, to make sure the show runs smoothly.
Her movements are so precise it is easy to imagine the actors she is dressing as she smooths the outfits over their hips and zips them up, while checking if they need anything else. She introduces us to a range of zany characters, including pretentious actors, snooty dance captains and one particularly funny actor who takes pleasure in throwing his dirty underpants at her. They each have their own distinct personalities, proving Prentice’s skills in characterisation.
Prentice’s anecdotes and stories intertwine with her personal journey of growth that she embarked on while working as a dresser. The work took a huge toll on her body, and after sustaining an injury she was forced to give up her dreams of becoming a dancer. Instead of reminiscing about what she lost, she describes how she grew as a person, and learned how to stand up for herself and prioritise both her mental and physical health.
Funny, yet also thought-provoking and inspiring, Unseen is a fantastic show that offers something slightly different than your traditional one-woman show. It’s certainly essential for theatre fans, and you’re sure to learn something new about what happens backstage.
Unseen was performed at Zoo Playground as part of Edinburgh Fringe 2024.
Words by Ellen Leslie
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