What do you do when no-one believes you? When doctors dismiss you? When loved ones judge you? When you feel like you’re losing yourself? Drawing on real-life experiences, writer-performer Olivia Ormond has crafted an insightful exploration of the struggle women face to be clearly seen and heard by a male-dominated, rational, numbers-driven medical establishment. As it progresses, this captivating monologue widens its scope, exploring the myriad ways in which society has encouraged Olivia – and many other women – to disappear, hide, make themselves smaller. It’s a powerful performance, with some searingly perceptive observations at its heart. I especially appreciated Olivia’s willingness to explore complex, contradictory emotions: in an often oversimplifying, ever-more polarising world, such nuance is increasingly vital.

Greenside @ Riddles Court, until 9 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Andy Leask]