Unity Theatre
Redefining lesbian identity
“The audience left with a deeper understanding of themselves and the relationships they navigate”
This physical and comedic performance by Rowena Gander captured the contradictions and nuances of lesbian relationships with an honesty that was deeply moving yet refreshingly humorous.
The pre-show curtain raiser by local performers added a beautiful layer of community engagement, creating a celebratory and inclusive atmosphere. It was a thoughtful touch that complemented the main performance.
As the lights dimmed, Gander stepped into the Unity Theatre space with electric energy.
The heart of the show delves into the challenging internal dialogues queer individuals face. These are explored through innovative choreography and audience interaction, creating a dynamic performance that felt intimate yet expansive. Gander’s physicality on stage is awe-inspiring; her movements narrate unspoken emotions, and her comedic timing provides moments of levity that highlight the universality of her themes.
True to her word, no two shows are the same—this evening featured a duet with a local LGBT+ performer who brought their own perspective and artistry to the stage. The collaboration was seamless, a testament to Gander’s skill in creating meaningful connections with her co-performers and audiences alike.
After the show, I had the privilege of speaking with Gander, whose passion for her craft was palpable. She explained how everything began:
“I realised there was a gap—there wasn’t enough representation of lesbian identity in the arts. I wanted to explore it, give it space, and really allow it to be seen in all its layers.”
One unique aspect of the production is Gander’s decision to perform with a different local professional performer at each venue. She shared how inspiring and stimulating it is to work with these women:
“Collaborating with a new performer each time is such a gift. It allows me to channel the themes of the show in a completely different way at every venue. Each duet brings fresh energy and perspective, which makes the work feel alive and constantly evolving.”
Her advice to anyone questioning or seeking to express their identity?
“Explore it through art and creativity. It’s such a powerful way to understand yourself and connect with others.”
Gander also emphasised how much she values feedback, stating, “I always take into account the audience’s and artists’ perspectives. They help me improve my work and inspire me”.
The performance was as much about the individual as it was about the collective—each audience member left with a deeper understanding of themselves and the relationships they navigate. As a viewer, I was struck by how the themes extended beyond sexuality, touching on the universal human desire for connection and self-awareness.
Woman | Women is not just a show—it’s a journey into the heart of identity, community, and love. The final stop of the tour at Shakespeare North in Prescot on 30th November promises to be as dynamic and thought-provoking as the rest. For those who haven’t experienced it yet, it’s a must-see.
This performance affirms Gander’s place as a trailblazer in contemporary theatre, offering a vital representation of lesbian identity and pushing the boundaries of what performance art can achieve.
Social Media
Instagram: @rowenagander
Twitter: @rowenagander
Facebook: www.facebook.com/rowenagander
Creative Team
Produced, directed, performed, and choreographed by Rowena Gander
Lighting Design by Phil Saunders
Sound Design by Noel Jones
Outside eye and mentoring: Jo Fong and Cathy Butterworth