WISE-CRACKING TALE NOT TO BE SNEEZED AT

LIZ Merendino’s Fringe debut, Sneasons of Liz, offers a delightful and amusing remedy for ailments. This sensuous, one-woman cabaret narrates the life of its nominal character who, from childhood, is cursed with a multitude of allergies and afflictions.

The show’s set design is sparse, with just a stool and a table of props on stage, but is suitable in its creation of closeness as Merendino candidly relates anecdotes to the audience from her perch. A natural when it comes to physical performance, she switches and flits between roles as she impersonates others.

Adorning a pair of oversized glasses, she transforms into her wise-cracking Bronxite mother, complete with high-pitched screech.

Her homespun advice, ranging from sleeping upside down to rubbing strange concoctions into the skin, acts as both a comfort and hindrance to Liz and finally shapes her decision to flee the nest.

Feeling isolated by her condition, Liz embarks on a trip around the globe.

In Venezuela, she is duped by a local lothario; in London, she falls for a transvestite; and in Japan, she is shown up by a smooth-talking, sushi connoisseur – all before returning home.

As Liz aptly points out: “Pollen comes from ‘male’ trees. Males are the problem!”

Her sexual escapades are wondrously illustrated in song, with the bluesy Stormy Monday proving to be a particular highlight.

Accompanying Merendino’s delicate feverish vocals is Universal Arts’ own pianist, Warren Wills, who also doubles up as the heroine’s foil when required.

Although limited at times in scope, the New York chanteuse’s first venture is an enthralling, well-performed piece.

Run ended

SARAH NISBET