Words: Alex Grunberg

4 Stars

Betsy knows she is a star. She just needs the chance to prove it. And one more chance. And one more chance…

The Screen Test is a comedy show set in a nightmare. While performed with an abundance of jokes and physical comedy, at its heart this is a dark story that thrives on this dichotomy, making its most unsettling impact where the horror and laughter meet. The script is full of unexpected jokes that keep you on your toes as you race to keep up with Betsy’s relentless pace, as well as a quietly intelligent sense of humour that pairs self-deprecating cruelty with simmering rage. We laugh and cringe in the same moment at the sexist reality of Betsy’s “Golden Age” Hollywood, at everything she endures, and the opportunities she embraces.

This tightrope walk of balancing the genres depends entirely on Bebe Cave’s energetic performance. She acts, dances, auditions, and whips out rapid-fire patter with impressive endurance. There is no moment to rest here. Like the struggling actress fighting for the roles she knows she deserves, Cave is always “on,” pushing the show forward at full speed. She pulls hilarious expressions with a cartoon character-esque elasticity. She throws herself into the role with a haunting desperation, surreal and unsettling as she draws you into her dark fantasy of ambition and dashed hopes.

The Screen Test
Pleasance Courtyard, Below
15:10
Aug 12-13, 15-26