Review of Storms Beneath Her Skin by Rebecca Kling

Patrick’s Cabaret

http://www.fringefestival.org/2012/show/?id=2300

It’s Minnesota’s favorite topic, right, talking about the weather? Nice, safe, uncontroversial.  Rebecca Kling eases us into her presentation of one woman’s transgender experience using the weather as a metaphor. Her performance throughout is accessible and genuine. There is an elegance to her movements on stage that is rare in a show that is mostly narrative, a dance-like quality, as if to say “I am now at home in my body; I am now at home in my body.” And yet learning to be at home in one’s body is, like weather patterns and the change of seasons, not a static experience, but a dynamic process.  One of the most beautiful moments for me was when she talked about how she experienced transitioning as a gain – becoming more herself – versus how those who knew and loved her from birth felt it as a loss. It takes compassion, strength and clarity to understand this, while also being a steadfast advocate for oneself. In a similar position I don’t think I could manage it, and I’m grateful she can.