‘Batshit’ is an award-winning, one-woman show that explores how women have been pathologised throughout history. It handles this stark truth with theatrics, song, and humour, owed to a wonderful performance from show creator, Leah Shelton.
Directed by Olivier Award-winner Ursula Martinez, the show is a deeply personal requiem to Leah’s grandmother, Gwen, who was incarcerated at Perth’s Heathcote Hospital in the 1960s simply for wanting a different life.
Through smart costume changes, narration of Gwen’s real psychiatric reports, striking visuals, and a sound design ranging from haunting to hilarious, you are drawn into Gwen’s story. The light, sound, and movement often clashed or swirled together in a way that mimicked memories unfolding and thoughts unravelling.
‘Batshit’ is dreamlike and at times disorrienting – but always immersive.
A moment that really stuck with me was where Leah appeared to sink. Without spoiling too much, the timing, pacing, and subtle illusion in that scene beautifully captured the weight of mental distress and feeling of slipping under.
Leah Shelton is magnetic in ‘Batshit’. Her energy throughout the show is playful, chaotic, and deeply felt. She brings a cabaret feel to what is ultimately a powerful piece of performance art.
Some of the sketch-like moments in the show, especially where illusion was used, felt almost cartoonish, but grounded in a painful reality. It reminded me somewhat of the comedic sketches in girls’ and women’s guidebooks by Kaz Cooke. The sketches in ‘Batshit’ are like quirky illustrations come to life.
I saw the show with my best friend. We both know women who have had similar experiences to Gwen of being scrutinised for daring to think or act ‘differently’. The personal connection made the show hit even harder. Some people held each other’s hands in the audience. And judging from how busy Fairfax Studio was, as well as the looks and conversations I overheard in the lobby afterwards, it’s a story – and a reality – that resonated with everyone.
‘Batshit’ is dedicated to anyone who’s ever been told to calm down, be quiet, or smile more. It’s an honest, heartfelt and vulnerable performance that reminds us how far we’ve come — and how far we still have to go. Highly recommend!
Rating: 5/5 stars ★★★★★
– Maria
Maria Konidaris is a freelance writer and casual tour guide living between Melbourne and Greece. When she’s not crying during shows at the Arts Centre, she can be found gallivanting around Melbourne libraries or dodging winter on a Greek island beach.
Batshit runs from 28 May-1 June 2025 at Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne. Book tickets now.
The venue is accessible
