Reviewed by Guy Picot
A SHARK ATE MY PENIS (a history of boys like me) is an engaging and moving one-man show, written and performed by the charming Laser Webber. It tells his story, as well as that of other “Boys like him” throughout history, lest we imagine that gender dysphoria is a modern phenomenon. Using songs (Webber is a professional musician) to punctuate his Hero’s Journey, he illuminates a condition that the world is only just beginning to understand. No spoilers regarding his particular story, but it is both traumatic and uplifting.
J.K. Rowling is rolled in (via a projection screen) to serve as Devil’s advocate. Onstage, at least, Webber is able to triumph over the transphobia she spouts.
Webber is in a safe space, and he clearly cherishes that acceptance and affection; the review audience I was part of was on his side and made their feelings known after every joke or song. He may be preaching to the choir, but it is a sermon worth hearing.
The show is bound for the Edinburgh Festival, where Webber will doubtless garner more plaudits.
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