Scary Gorgeous

2010 Fringe First winners RashDash ask why girls allow themselves to be defined by their sexual prowess in the mess that is modern femininity. Two classic ‘frenemies’ and bandmates, Helen and Abbi, demonstrate the difficulty of being a ‘normal’ young woman in Loaded/Nuts-loving society, each pushing themselves outside their comfort zone to do things they believe are attractive to guys and compete for validation through the attention of men.

Songs and sections of drama between the two girls are interspersed with dance segments portraying elements of the story, such as the competitive nature of their friendship or sex itself. The backing band provides instrumentation for the acted scenes, loaded with wry, observational humour. A final scene involving Pussycat Dolls club-style sailor girl outfits questions whether this is something women do because they want to, or whether they believe it is the only thing they think they can do to get noticed by men. It’s a witty performance that never preaches to its audience.

Bedlam Theatre, 225 9893, until 20 Aug (not 14), 9pm, £10 (£8).