Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Tuesday 04 March 2025, Gluttony, Adelaide, South Australia
There’s something truly special about one-person shows, and when you have a performer as seasoned, charismatic and loveable as Joann Condon, you know you’re in for a treat. Best known for her role in Little Britain as Fat Pat, Condon takes centre stage in Little Boxes, a deeply personal and engaging solo performance that’s making tremendous waves at the 2025 Adelaide Fringe Festival. With a perfect blend of humour, heart, and raw honesty, this show invites audiences on a journey through the metaphorical ‘boxes’ that have shaped her life that truly does not differ to most of us humans. It is easy to connect.
Breaking Out of Life’s Boxes
At its core, Little Boxes is about the labels, expectations, and constraints that society – and often ourselves – place upon us. Whether it’s childhood ambitions, industry stereotypes, or the roles we’re expected to play in adulthood, Condon unpacks these ideas with wit and poignancy. She takes us through the struggles of being an actor, a mother, a woman, and a human navigating a world that loves to pigeonhole people. Did I have a tear or two? Yes (maybe more, but don’t judge me).
The structure of the show is simple yet powerful. Condon moves seamlessly between anecdotes, reflections, and sharp comedic observations, making the performance feel like an intimate conversation rather than a scripted play. Her ability to shift between laugh-out-loud moments and deeply touching and heart-breaking revelations keeps us, the audience, captivated from start to finish.
A Performance with Heart and Humor
Condon’s comedic timing is impeccable – no surprise given her background in comedy. But what really makes Little Boxes stand out is her vulnerability. She doesn’t shy away from the struggles and disappointments she has faced, which makes her triumphs all the more uplifting. Reclaiming the word FAT as not a ‘negative’, from one moment, you’re laughing at her tales of navigating the entertainment industry, and the next, you’re wiping away a tear as she shares a personal loss or a moment of self-doubt.
Her storytelling is immersive, painting vivid pictures with her words, gestures, and expressions. The set is minimal, allowing the focus to remain entirely on her and the stories she tells. This simplicity works in the show’s favor – it’s all about connection, and Condon achieves that effortlessly.
Audience Reactions & Critical Praise
Since its debut, Little Boxes has garnered rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. Theatre and Tonic described it as “a show with such profound heart that I think all need to see it,” while LondonTheatre1 praised Condon’s ability to balance comedy and emotion so effectively.
At the Adelaide Fringe, where audiences are treated to a smorgasbord of performances ranging from wild and experimental to deeply personal, Little Boxes stands out as an authentic and heartfelt experience. Those who attended opening night have described it as “deeply moving,” “brilliantly funny,” and “unexpectedly emotional.” And I agree – I have fell in love, with the upmost respect, for this artist and human.
Where & When to See It
If you’re lucky enough to be in Adelaide, Little Boxes is running at The Lark in Gluttony – Rymill Park from March 4th to March 10th, with performances kicking off at 7:20 PM each night. Tickets range from $27 to $32, with discounts available for certain groups.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a show that will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even shed a tear, Little Boxes is an absolute bonified must-see at this year’s 2025 Adelaide Fringe Festival. Joann Condon delivers a an exceptional masterclass in brilliant storytelling, proving that sometimes the most powerful performances don’t need elaborate sets or special effects – just a compelling story, a talented performer, a good human and an audience ready to listen.
Don’t miss it! 🎭✨
