If you are looking for a different kind of show to watch in the theatre this month then this may one that you will want to go and see. On the 16th, 17th, 23rd and 24th November at Barons Court Theatre, the show The Room of P*** is happening. It is a double act clowning performance exploring the experience of living with a chronic condition. I spoke to Lucia to find out all about it.

Hello how are you, tell us about yourself?

Hi! I am Lucia and I am a theatre-maker, performer and producer from Italy based in London. I am particularly interested in physical work as a way to break down language barriers as well as a storytelling technique that can sometimes be way more effective than words.

I am fascinated by the world of clowning, Commedia, dance and physical expression as well as working with a multidisciplinary approach, opening up community spaces and realms of experimentation and connection among artists.

Tell us all about why did you decide to create the show?

I got diagnosed with a chronic and degenerative kidney condition 2 years ago now and after a period in hospital at the end of 2023 I decided to start writing about it and bringing it to the stage, which I did in 2024. I am a big believer of the power of transformational theatre and the show started out as an angry self-ironic monologue as part of Creative Sparks night for young creatives in Kingston.

I always felt like it was hard to talk about it without making people uncomfortable around me and thought I needed to talk about it to facilitate conversations and destigmatize the topic.

What can you tell us about your show in London this week?

My castmate Giulia and I are now developing the show as a double act clowning performance, where clowning becomes a new lens to read the experience of living with a chronic condition, and laughter the way to break down taboos around the topic. The show explores themes of change and uncertainty through physical comedy, asking the audience to embrace the absurd.

The show will be showcased at the Barons Court Theatre on the 16th and 17th of November and then again on the 23rd and 24th of November, at 4,30 pm.

What is the most challenging thing about the show?

I would say the most challenging thing for us in the process of devising the show has been finding the balance to successfully deliver a show that is able to make light on this without taking away from the experience of struggle people encounter in their fight with chronic illness.

As well as maintaining high energy levels throughout and convey the same messages without being able to rely on the use of words on stage.

What have been some of the best highlights since doing the show?

This is the very first time this specific version of the show will be showcased, as part of the Voila! International Theatre Festival, but it is very interesting to see how it has evolved from a monologue to a cabaret piece to a clowning double act now in November.

Its versatility allows us to explore the topic from different points of view and it has opened up conversations through audience members relating to the subject in different ways.

I will also bring the ‘spoken monologue’ version of the show to hospitals in Milan, where it will be performed in front of doctors and will highlight the need for mental health support improvements in the sector.

What is the best reaction you have had from an audience member?

The best reaction I had from an audience member was when I offered a gross drink (mixture of different juices but which represented urine during the show) to them and someone was willing to accept it. I almost gave it to them but then I drank it myself

If people want to follow you on social media where can they find you?

You can find us on Instagram at @___luce, and @giuliettz_ or on X @_JustCallMeLux

Finally in three words why should people come to your show?

You should come to see our show because it is: FUN, IMPORTANT, and UNEXPECTED!