Review: Hannah Platt: Defence Mechanism

It is easy to be fond of Hannah Platt. And her new show Defence Mechanism requires no defending; it, too, is ridiculously easy to love. Upon a body dysmorphia diagnosis, Platt unpacks mental illness, therapy, and family ties, sharing her own daily discomfort to bring a rare honesty to the stage. Amid such openness, Platt maintains a lightness rooted in a genuine joy for comedy and the connection it offers. 

Despite some fairly dated references at the beginning of the show – One Direction and EastEnders’ Ian Beale – Defence Mechanism knows itself from the outset. Utterly charming, Platt engages the audience with a distinct command of her own voice and a confidence upon the stage. There’s no gimmicks here; Platt is disinterested in hot topics. Instead, Defence Mechanism beats with everyday humanity rather than trending. Reflections on body dysmorphia give way to further insights on what it means to be a comedian and demanding to be watched. Easily, Platt’s discussions roll into one another, a well-crafted yet subtle line of thought.

With Platt’s warmth, Defence Mechanism welcomes us in as if it’s a delight to meet us too. Platt is undeniably a rising star; it’s quite the honour to witness her early days, knowing that the best is yet to come.