Review: The Unicorn

An essential story raising awareness of the devastating effects of sexual harassment

★★★
theatre review (edinburgh) | Read in About 1 minute
33629 large
The Unicorn, photo by Michael Shelford
Published 20 Aug 2022

Sam Potter’s solo play is a freight train that just doesn’t stop. Performed by Georgina Fairbanks, the word count on the one-hour play must be one of the highest at the Fringe. Fairbanks fires an incredible amount of content in a tight amount of time yet hardly trips over their tongue.

Potter’s story explores the slippery slope to addiction but with a peculiar crux. After a traumatic experience of sexual harassment at work leading to the termination of her employment, Andrea seeks solace at the sex parties she is invited to by a match on tinder. The consequential spiral leaves Andrea struggling with her inner resolve.

This performance is unapologetically powerful; from physical presence to vocal integrity, Fairbanks gives a confident monologue full of verve. However, the performance hits a monotonous groove as the words-per-minute rapidly accelerate. The pay-off in the final moments of the show is well deserved as Fairbanks truly connects to the text and exposes their vulnerability in a touching climax. Potter’s experience is clear, bringing an essential story to the Fringe, raising awareness of the devastating effects caused by sexual harassment.