Oh, Calm Down is an intriguing exploration of two women starring Charlotte Anne-Tilley and Maddy Banks, Claire and Lucy, navigating pivotal moments in their lives—one facing a due date, the other a deadline. The simple set design effectively supports the show, allowing the focus to remain on the evolving dynamics between the characters as they assume multiple roles in each other's lives. This parallel storytelling approach is a clever narrative device that reveals layers of self-discovery and exploration.

However, the pacing feels slow, which is somewhat at odds with the show's title. As we delve into their quirks and journeys, there's a noticeable lack of physical and vocal differentiation between the multiple characters they portray. This choice undercuts the potential comedic value of multi-roling, which could have provided some much-needed levity in an otherwise serious drama. The occasional funny asides are welcome, but the heavy reliance on exposition can feel unnecessary and bogs down the narrative.

Charlotte Anne-Tilley, in particular, struggles a little to embody the emotional states she describes. Instead of trusting the subtext and allowing the audience to feel her anxiety, she often spells out her feelings, which diminishes the impact of the performance. This approach contrasts with the classic "show, don't tell" principle, leaving an impression of discomfort and unease in the portrayal. Rather than playing against her emotions, Claire seems to lean into them too heavily, which hampers the depth and authenticity of her journey.

There are some standout moments, such as poignant one-liners like "thoughts aren't facts," that resonate as insightful pieces of advice. The thematic thread of both characters grappling with a lack of control in their lives is well-conceived, and the clever tie-up at the end underscores the irony of the show's title. Yet, the writing and performance occasionally falter in trusting the material enough to fully engage the audience.

Oh, Calm Down is a show with a great concept and moments of brilliance, but the lack of emotional depth in Claire's character prevents the audience from fully connecting with her journey. Despite its flaws, the show is a relatable exploration of self-discovery, and with a bit more refinement, it could truly shine.

*** Three stars

Reviewed by: Beatriz Do O

Oh, Calm Down plays at Summerhall until 26 Aug, with further info here.