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Latest items? Unedited? Fringe Report Uncut
Shelley Cooper
Verdict: One woman's heroic journey
Edinburgh - Gilded Balloon Teviot - August 03
Shelley Cooper's show is the story of how she became the woman she is today (she used to be a man). It's warm, endearing, and funny.
From the practical task of finding clothes that fit ('I'm over 6'-5"') to reaching acceptance in a careless world, Shelley Cooper takes us on her elegantly-told - and quietly heroic - journey.
And a long journey it's been. From 5 years old, she faced 'the social consequences of thinking I was a girl when I was a boy'. The boy she was, excelled at sport, including a trial for Chelsea, and Queens Park Rangers ('I didn't want to play for them; I just liked the name').
Along the way there's been secret dressing, ordering of mail-order wigs, make-up technique, going out with the Vicar's daughter - and marriage. As a man, she married 'a fantastic woman' and had 2 children.
But her destination couldn't be avoided, and, with grace and courage, she accepted the challenge.
Shelley Cooper's show is personal and true. It's a fine testament to a brave woman - and lots of fun.
Credits: Performance - Shelley Cooper. Director - Lizzie Roper
END
John Park
reviewed 29 April 03 / Canal Café Theatre
Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2012
