People with dwarfism aren’t circus acts, they are not bodies made for entertainment, and Tamm Reynolds AKA Midgitte Bardot wants you to know this. Through their drag persona, Midgitte Bardot, Reynolds tells the shared experiences of their community in the most glamorous and chaotic way. Shooting from Below, a show combining musical theatre, movement, live art and drag, co-written and performed by Tamm Reynolds and directed by Izzy Rabey, makes its sold-out, cathartic return to the Southbank Centre.
The stage is sprawled with dismembered legs, grass and disco balls, an introduction of what to expect. Midgitte arrives on the stage with a powerful presence; every inch of movement prompts a roar of cheering and laughter from the audience. She is magnetic, commanding the stage so casually. The storytelling and performance are theatrical, with incredibly addictive original songs. After the first song, you’re already anticipating the next. Midgitte’s performance is so colourful and detailed; every line is delivered with intention, comedy laced with rage. She questions whether she mistakes ableism for kindness, her anger building as she reflects on the mistreatment of her community, and she closes the show with a distorted rendition of That’s Life.
The writing is masterfully crafted, switching between apologising for her actions and telling the backstory in an avant-garde way, expressed through stage design, costuming and performance. Every element has been well thought out. Every line delivery, commenting on the ableism towards people with dwarfism, is met with a perfectly fitting punchline that still allows every statement to stand as a critique against society’s mistreatment. Though a humorous and entertaining show, Reynolds still allows space for reflection.
The shifting between time and place is done clearly through lighting and wig changes. The wig changes were a favourite amongst the audience. Lighting designer Marty Langthorne does an incredible job, beautifully illuminating Midgitte and the stunning stage designed by Maisie Frater. The set design complements Midgette’s costuming, following a similar colour palette of greens and neutral tones.
Shooting from Below blends important discussions on power dynamics and ableism in a masterfully crafted show delivered through a stunning and sharply humorous drag performance. Midgitte’s future appearance on stage is definitely anticipated and one to look out for.
Review by Rim Alkaiat
Feature Image by Holly Revell
Written and performed by Tamm Reynolds
Co-written and music performed by Nicol Parkinson
Shooting From Below is an Unlimited UK Partner Award 2025 commission with the Southbank Centre / funding from Arts Council England.
Visit Performance & Dance – Spring/Summer 2026 | Southbank Centre for more like this at Southbank Centre
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