Maybe I Do … ?
Until Things Do Us Part
Maybe I Do…?
by Cova Camblor
Covadonga Camblor at The Hen and Chickens Theatre, then at the Rosemary Branch Theatre, Islington until 5th August
Review by Heather Moulson
Carmen, dressed in full white wedding regalia, waits to get married … on Zoom. However, Stuart is her real love. That is just the beginning of a wealth of misunderstandings and heartbreaks, as Carmen takes us on a bitter-sweet quest for love and other fulfilments. Despite painful life lessons, Carmen keeps her humour and exuberance, while she is to be admired for her steely determination to get back in the ring after suffering many blows.
Maybe I do…? is a one-woman show from the point of view of a Spanish girl living in London. With culture clashes, language barriers and other bumpy rides, no detail is spared.
The actor and writer, Cova Camblor plays the role of Carmen with honesty and conviction.
As Carmen receives a crushing blow from Stuart and a no-show from potential groom, Steve, Prisoner 12345678, her love gamble ends in heartbreak.
It is a dangerous game that, nevertheless, Carmen would play again. Even after getting profound advice (by default), Carmen still sets her sights on “The One” and clutches her bouquet.
The red furniture is a good bold choice for the dark stage, and the sensitive lighting provokes real emotions. Nice sound effects with Zoom and Spotify add authenticity. There are moments when it is difficult to catch all of Carmen’s words, but her infectious personality and wit stays consistent. The bridal costume is engaging and has a desperate glamour.
Maybe I do…?, directed by Anca Vaida, is an intelligent production, really worth a visit.
Carmen’s is a painful journey, but we all know that such a journey can also pay dividends, and our heroine stays optimistic. And we stay with her.
Heather Moulson, July 2023
Photography courtesy of Cova
Mark Aspen 