Baby Reindeer

Why Watch Baby Reindeer

Created by Richard Gadd, the Edinburgh Comedy Award winner, Baby Reindeer is a chilling tale of the aftermath of a chance encounter. Gadd is a writer, comedian, and actor who is best known for his 2016 show Monkey See Monkey Do that won him the prestigious Edinburgh Comedy Award. He has also appeared in television programs such as Clique and Tripped. Although well-known for his comedy career, Gadd steps into new waters with this gripping personal tale of harassment and stalking. Baby Reindeer is Gadd recounting the horrifying experiences with a stalker.
Jon Brittain, in charge of the direction, keeps the narrative gripping throughout. The use of an empty barstool to depict the stalker is an excellent idea. Just like the stalker, the barstool is always looming in the background and is the inevitable centre of attraction. Peter Small’s lighting design is top-notch and always gives a sense of eerie discomfort. Combined with Gadd’s absorbing narration, the barebones set design is perfect for the occasion.

The Show

Richard Gadd met Martha at the bar he worked in 2013. What began as some light flirting soon took an extremely dark turn, with Martha beginning to stalk Gadd. Relentless text messages, emails and stalking follows, with the police unwilling to help out much.
It outlines Gadd’s experience of being stalked and still continues to be something that is going on. Gadd is exceptionally cautious about what he mentions on stage. Although lightly fictionalized, the harassment that he has suffered, however, is explored in detail. Although the elements of frustration and fear have been toned down, Gadd has added a touch of morbid thrill to it, so as to make things easier to watch. This murky account of two individuals whose lives are inexplicably intertwined and unable to escape each other’s grip is a must watch!

Good For

Fans of Richard Gadd | Fans of Real Stories