Alice Nelson and Jacqueline Russell give themselves the daunting task of summarizing and lampooning the history of feminism in sixty minutes, all while holding an audience’s interest. Inspired by Ariel Levy’s book “Female Chauvinist Pigs: The Rise of Female Raunch Culture,” “Raunch” is a series of sketches interspersed with quotes from Levy and other formidable feminists.

“Raunch” delves into the current state of feminism and whether such phenomena as reality television, breast implants, and fitness stripping are empowering or if we have simply reverted back to a 19th century mindset. Is it choice or is it pressure, they ask.

Nelson and Russell are truly amazing performers and deftly handle their chosen subjects but it would have been interesting had there been less focus on mainstream targets such as Hooters and more on blurry topics such as burlesque. “Raunch” is at its strongest with its slapstick commentaries rather than its more obvious parodies.

The quotes, while informative and relevant, were somewhat overwhelming in length and quantity. Be warned if sitting at stage level – the screen can be difficult to see.

With “Raunch,” Nelson and Russell create an informative and engaging performance full of laughs – it just leaves you wanting more.

Raunch
Part of the Vancouver International Fringe Festival
False Creek Gym
Remaining performances:
Friday Sept 17, 8:15 pm
Saturday Sept 18, 11:50 am