Tall Child focuses on Holly Spillar’s experience working as a nanny for an extremely wealthy child. One who is handed every opportunity on a plate from the moment they were born. Spillar effectively contrasts her own low-income background with the child’s insurmountable wealth. Unlike the infant, she’s worked hard to be where she is today (including having to work multiple minimum wage jobs).
As a musical comedy, the show is peppered with tunes throughout. Spillar’s songs are catchy and engaging, particularly a Charli xcx parody that dissects the weird infatuation rich girls have with performative poverty. It’s in these moments that Spillar shines, leaving you hoping she releases an album of the show. Also strong is her delivery; an almost otherworldly charm that draws audiences in.
Spillar delivers a steady stream of humour, but the show lacks a little unpredictability and spontanaity. Towards the end of the show though, Spillar brings us back round when she delivers a particularly heartfelt number about her relationship with the wealthy child, which sticks with you long after the show finishes.
Holly Spillar: Tall Child, Underbelly, Bristo Square, until 24 Aug (not 12, 19), 5.45pm