Kathryn Haywood’s Yoga & Sex… for women (over 40) is a theatrical gem, expertly blending laughter, yoga and a cheeky dash of innuendo into a delightful hour-long escape. From the moment the curtains pulled in The Actors’ theatre to reveal Haywood in a headstand, we knew we were in for a wild ride!
Haywood’s yoga class feels like a fever dream, as she fumbles through absurd yoga books from the 1960s that hold the belief that constipation makes women have wrinkles. Her expressive face and masterful comedic timing draw us into a world where yoga and sex are intertwined with the hilarity of modern dating. Though she does amazingly on her own, the show wouldn’t be complete without the participation of the audience. Haywood isn’t shy to pick a victim, whether she’s making them do yoga exercises for firmer breasts or singling out an age-appropriate ‘horse man’ to enact Kama Sutra positions with.
There are a handful of gags that run throughout the performance, which for the most part, keep everyone laughing and involved. Haywood’s running joke of misnaming audience members lands every time, though the ones regarding flatulence tend to feel a bit more tired towards the end. Regardless, Haywood’s infectious energy makes this easy to overlook.
Beneath the laughter, Haywood’s show subtly tackles deeper issues. While the yoga books initially seem outdated, they actually highlight how little has changed in terms of societal expectations of women and internalised misogyny. Her honest, hilarious takes on meditation’s often overstated benefits serve as a critique of the wellness industry’s unrealistic standards, that primarily seek to punish rather than empower.
Yoga & Sex… for women (over 40) is a reminder that while the ‘rules’ for women may have evolved since the 1960s, they’re still very much present, just in a more covert, socially acceptable guise. Its painful relevancy doesn’t just apply to women over 40, but to all ages and genders. If the show sounds like something you’d enjoy, make sure to grab a glass of Haywood’s favourite drink, fine wine. We’re sure she’ll be very… appreciative! Though Sunday 19th May will be her last rendezvous in Brighton, you can also catch the show in London, Manchester or Edinburgh – you can follow her on Instagram to stay in the loop.
By Neave Glennon
Sunday 19th May; 5pm; from £7
The Actors, 4 Prince’s Street, Brighton, BN2 1RD
brightonfringe.org
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