Millicent Sarre is Too Tired to Smash (Patriarchy) ★★★★★

Too Tired to Smash the Patriarchy, Too Talented to Ignore

Smart, sophisticated and wickedly sharp, Millicent Sarre Is Too Tired to Smash the Patriarchy is feminist cabaret operating at an exceptionally high level. With intelligent writing, beautifully crafted lyrics and superb vocals, this is exactly the kind of original work that makes the Fringe worth digging through.

Sarre’s voice is smooth as silk, even when the material she is tackling is anything but. Her tone and diction are impeccable; every lyric lands, every word can be understood, and the complexity of the subject matter never gets in the way of the music. It is polished without feeling manufactured, intellectual without becoming inaccessible, and political without forgetting that an audience has come to be entertained.

And entertained you will be. The songs are fresh, modern and entirely original, with enough musical hooks to have you toe-tapping while Sarre quietly dismantles systems of power and privilege around you. There is a confidence to the writing that allows the tougher feminist messaging to sit naturally alongside the comedy and cabaret.

The show design is equally accomplished. Thoughtful lighting complements the music rather than competing with it, while Cam’s appearances on guitar and vocals are a terrific addition, adding another texture without ever taking the spotlight away from Sarre.

Because ultimately, Millicent Sarre is the full package: writer, musician, vocalist and commanding cabaret performer. Her musical skill and vocal ability are extraordinary, but it is the combination of those talents with something meaningful to say that makes this show stand out.

In the enormous Fringe haystack, this is one hell of a glimmering needle.

Five stars. The patriarchy might not be smashed tonight, she’s tired, after all, but it certainly gets a bloody good Australian kicking.

★★★★★