“My Period, the C*Block,” written by and starring Ruth Oyediran as Bolade, is a compelling and heartfelt exploration of womanhood, friendship, and the systemic racism faced by black women within the healthcare system. Alongside Lara Grace Ilori’s portrayal of Jessica, the play presents a striking balance between humour, pain, and the tender moments of sisterhood.

Bolade, a young British woman of Nigerian descent, is at the heart of this narrative. She is unapologetically herself — vibrant, full of "main character energy," and navigating life with passion and laughter. Yet beneath her dynamic exterior lies a daily struggle with chronic, debilitating period pain, which often leaves her misunderstood and isolated, even from those closest to her; but not today, not on the day of the biggest party of the year. Fresh from a breakup from "He who shall not be named”, nothing was going to stop her living her best life and meeting the love of her life, Tion Wayne, so she takes pills to prevent her period pains from ruining her day - a big recipe for disaster.

Photography by Charles Flint (@charlesflintphotography)

The set was creative and set designer Seònaid Gowdie did a great job; loads of red everywhere, and a large red cloth hung from above divided the stage, with hospital room dividers on both sides of the stage to set the tone, and a bathtub that is eventually used to cleanse Bolade after her traumatic incident, a moment that felt both symbolic and spiritual. The lighting and sound design were equally as good. Sound designer Kayode Gomez and lighting designer Ben Garcia both deserve praise too.

Under the direction of the brilliant TD Moyo and associate director lydia luke, the production brings Bolade and Jessica’s journey to life with high-energy performances and genuine comedic moments. While not every joke or dramatic beat landed perfectly, the play’s heartfelt core shines through. The chemistry between Oyediran and Ilori grounds the story in warmth and authenticity.

Bolade’s story is deeply personal but also speaks to a broader, systemic issue. Her frequent encounters with the healthcare system expose the racial disparities and dismissiveness many Black women face. The play highlights how the NHS often disregards or minimises the pain and concerns of women of colour, leaving Bolade trapped in a cycle of frustration and invisibility, leaving her to make a silly decision.

Photography by Charles Flint (@charlesflintphotography)

Despite the heavy themes, the play does not drown in despair. Bolade’s relationship with her best friend Jessica provides a bright counterbalance. Jessica, the calmer, nurturing counterpart to Bolade’s fiery spirit, stands by her side as a pillar of love and support. Their friendship is a beautiful portrayal of sisterhood, showing how women - especially Black women - uplift one another, even in the face of adversity, but also hold each other accountable if necessary.

“My Period, the C*Block” excels in blending personal and political themes, using Bolade’s story as a lens to examine broader social issues. The play is as much a celebration of Black womanhood and friendship as it is a call to action against institutionalised racism and the silencing of Black women's pain. With banter, heart, and raw honesty, it sheds light on a reality that many face, but few openly discuss, making it a necessary and prompt addition to contemporary theatre. This raw, energetic, and heartfelt piece deserves wider recognition. Somebody pick this up for a transfer, please.

🌕🌕🌕🌕 4/5 Moons