Bryony Kimmings is back with ‘Bog Witch,’ her first solo show in five years, weaving a captivating mix of humor and urgency that forms part of a vibrant new wave of eco-theatre. Much like the Royal Court’s experimental piece Cow | Deer and the upcoming musical comedy Hot Mess at Southwark Playhouse, this production offers fresh insights into the ongoing struggles of our planet.
Kimmings shares her transformative year after moving to a regenerative permaculture homestead with her son, her partner, and his daughter. It’s a humorous tale of a city mouse adapting to a nature-infused lifestyle, far from the comforts of Deliveroo and Selfridges. Her blend of stand-up comedy, song, and an ever-present feline sidekick creates a lively atmosphere reminiscent of “farm fatale” comedienne Katie Norris.
However, beneath the humor lies a profound commentary on climate catastrophe. Kimmings effectively captures the feelings of helplessness many experience amid global indifference—one realization that a supermarket sandwich has traveled farther than she has gives a stark perspective. Her bewilderment at a local harvest festival, which only accepts pre-packaged foods, highlights societal contradictions surrounding food and sustainability.
Her narrative not only looks forwards but also delves deep into history, revealing connections to ancient traditions as she considers felling a mighty oak tree for a better view from her new home. The staging is rich with English folk traditions of music, dance, and craft, with nods to everything from The Wizard of Oz to The Wicker Man, all while maintaining a whimsical storytelling style about her adventures and misadventures.
Supported by Lewis Gibson’s sound design and Tom Parkinson’s compositions, Kimmings transforms everyday pursuits into displays of anxiety and eco-awareness—turning a peaceful crafting session into a chaotic frenzy. Co-directed with Francesca Murray-Fuentes, her performance oscillates between confessional and self-deprecating tones, with moments that blend comedy and heart-stopping tension, particularly when she faces her son about her own carbon footprint.
Kimmings’ humor shines through—she describes a new neighbor as having “a daffodil-shaped face” and a home “like a hobbit’s vagina.” With choreography by Sarah Blanc and visually striking projections by Will Duke, her physicality has grown more assured, enhancing the engaging experience with expertly handled audience participation.
In her new rural setting, Kimmings is always on the move, dressed in charming cottagecore attire and busy with tasks on a beautifully simple set marked by tree stumps and delicate branches. Themes of haunting and witchcraft are playfully interwoven, referencing Naomi Klein’s theory of the shadow self and featuring a formidable group of local mothers.
It’s a joy to witness Kimmings’ return, her creative vision lighting up the large stage of this beautifully restored theatre. ‘Bog Witch’ is a theatrical exploration of the climate crisis that resonates on both personal and cosmic levels, serving as a time capsule for our current way of life.
At Soho Theatre Walthamstow, London, until 25 October.
