Roller Derby Saved My Soul (Nancy Kenny)

Victoria Fringe Festival

4.5 Stars

This delightful show was the ideal fare for a sunny Victoria afternoon.  In Roller Derby Saved My Soul, Kenny tells the story of a girl’s introduction to Roller Derby – of how through the confidence she gained from the sport, she changed from an introverted worshiper of superheros (superheroines?), to a Rollerblading hero in her own right.

Kenny inhabited the different characters well.  Her charming, slightly self-deprecating personality immediately put the audience firmly on her side.  We wanted her to succeed.  We wanted her to find happiness.  And as her character gained skill and confidence, we felt genuinely proud of her.

The narrative arc is solid, and the rollerblading outfit adds a nice touch to it all.  The drinking scene could be cut down a bit, but overall it was a strong script.  I loved that the love interest was a woman.  This was just taken as a matter of course by both Kenny and the audience.  How refreshing that is to see, and Nancy handled it perfectly.

This is a feel-good show, packed with clever quips, nerdy references and funny moments that will have you “rolling” in your sears.

Brava, Nancy.  The perfect end to this year’s fringe reviews.