JADAR

★★★★★

At HOME Manchester, an extraordinary theatrical experience unfolded, captivating an eager audience with a blend of historical reverence and modern vibrancy. Bloody Mary: Live!, a one-woman show written and performed by American actress Olivia Miller, ventured to reinterpret the narrative surrounding one of history’s most infamous queens, Mary Tudor, or as she is more notoriously known, “Bloody Mary”.

This distinctive piece of theatre not only challenges our perceptions of the past but does so with a refreshing blend of wit, emotion, and contemporary music, drawing parallels with the celebrated musical Six.

Miller’s script is a careful blend of historical fact and imaginative storytelling, exploring the tumultuous upbringing of Mary Tudor. Unlike the traditional villainous portrayal that history often assigns her, this show presents a nuanced and empathetic view of Mary, narrated from her perspective.

Through the creative lens of modern pop culture, with songs from icons like Britney Spears and Billie Eilish, the show delves into the heartache and turmoil that shaped Mary’s childhood. It compellingly argues against the “Bloody” moniker, suggesting that her actions were the result of a complex interplay of personal tragedy, political necessity, and the burdens of her royal birth.

What sets this show apart is not just its creative use of pop culture to tell a historical story but Miller’s stunning performance. She brings an unparalleled depth to the character of Mary Tudor, masterfully conveying a spectrum of emotions from the fury and despair of a queen scorned to the tender vulnerability of a woman trapped by her circumstances. Miller embodies Mary’s strength and sorrow with such conviction that she breathes new life into the historical figure, presenting her as a symbol of the trials faced by women, particularly those of royal status, during the Renaissance.

The narrative skillfully interlaces Mary’s personal misfortunes, including her estrangement from her dying mother, the execution of her stepmothers, and the political machinations that saw her betrothed for gain from a young age, with the broader political and religious upheavals of the period. The show, however, does more than just recount these events; it engages the audience, making them a part of Mary’s world through interactive elements that bridge the gap between the 16th century and today.

Miller’s genius lies not only in her scriptwriting and acting but in her ability to weave humor into a tragic story. Her timing is impeccable, delivering punchlines that resonate with both hilarity and heartache, demonstrating the absurdity and tragedy of Mary’s life. Her vocal prowess, expressive facial gestures, and commanding stage presence make it clear that she is a performer of extraordinary talent, deserving of far greater recognition.

However, it’s impossible to review Bloody Mary: Live! without expressing regret that the brilliance of such a show was confined to the relatively modest stage of HOME Manchester. This production demands a wider audience, not just for its fresh approach to storytelling and historical revisionism but for Miller’s spellbinding performance, which is nothing short of a tour de force.

The show’s duration, a mere 60 minutes, feels both perfect and insufficient simultaneously. Perfect, because it is a testament to Miller’s skill in conveying a complex narrative succinctly and with profound impact; insufficient, because as the curtain falls, one cannot help but wish for more time in the world she has created. This feeling, perhaps, is the greatest compliment to the show: that despite its brevity, it leaves a lasting impression, challenging audiences to reconsider the legacy of Bloody Mary and the power of narrative in shaping our understanding of history.

Olivia Miller’s Bloody Mary: Live! is a remarkable achievement, merging history, humor, and heartbreak into a compelling theatrical experience. It is a poignant reminder of the complexities of human nature and the enduring struggle of women to navigate a world designed against them.

For those fortunate enough to witness this masterclass in performance and storytelling, it is an unforgettable experience. A resounding 5 out of 5 stars, this show is not just a must-see; it’s a show by an actress that both deserve to be seen on the world’s greatest stages.

Bloody Mary: Live! has now wrapped its UK tour, but don’t fret: she’ll be back (and if the wait is too long, try saying her name three times in a mirror).

Photo: Graeme Braidwood