#DearDiary

#DearDiary is an autobiographical solo theatre show that explores the human condition and asks, “how do you measure your existence?”

Unwittingly written over 24 years, it is an existential joyride, pulled verbatim from thousands upon thousands of pages of Andi Snelling’s lifelong diary collection. A diary-keeper since 1992, long before the cultivated Facebook status, Andi shares her most private musings from age 9 to 33. Never intended to be made public, this theatrical Museum of Thoughts captures the human spirit that connects us all.

From a philosophising childhood, to teenage angst and adventure, into sexuality and adulthood, this comically tragic tale remains raw and uncensored, while unpacking the baggage we all carry, as humans trying to make sense of our place in the world.

With self-quoting satire, physical storytelling and song, Andi bares her soul and hashtags the heck out of it all.

After the huge success of Melbourne Fringe 2015 and a completely sold-out season at Adelaide Fringe 2016, Andi Snelling’s critically-acclaimed solo confessional, #DearDiary went on to enjoy an encore season at The Butterfly Club.

#DearDiary also toured around high schools and universities for drama students, including Q&A/workshop sessions. The show is also available for regional and national touring. Further information can be found at National Touring Selector.

All enquiries to: andi_snelling@yahoo.com

Written, Produced & Performed by Andi Snelling
Directed by Danielle Cresp
Costume Design by Victoria Haslam
Music by Ashleigh Southam
All images by Opencage Photography

CRITICAL RESPONSE:

★★★★ 1/2 "Snelling is charming, charismatic and hilarious, pulling off this unique show with a flair that grips the audience...and leaves you craving more... Engaging and funny... Snelling's performance is outstanding." - Glam Adelaide

★★★★ 1/2 "There isn't a second you won't be captivated or charmed by Andi and her unique way of story-telling." - The Australia Times

★★★★ 1/2 "You can't help but love Snelling's animated facial expressions and pantomime-like movements. Her style is unique, clever and charming." - Planet Arts

★★★★ 1/2 "A heartbreaking, yet heartwarming show that reminds us that we should all make the most of the lives we have." - A Short Girl in Melbourne

★★★★ "A compelling show... An entertaining, at times, deeply moving look at the nature of the human condition... Inquisitive and insightful." - The Adelaide Advertiser

★★★★ "Snelling has so much material to draw on, and is so skilled at getting the audience onside, that you're left wanting more." - Daily Review

★★★★ "A fascinating experience... Clown-like, engaging... Snelling is an accomplished singer, a talented and warm performer." - The Clothesline

★★★★ "A journey through one woman's ordinary, yet compelling life, #DearDiary is self-reflexive, clever and moving." - Rip It Up

"It's an extraordinary show, full of heart and pathos... The writing is impeccable. The performance is seamless." - Aussie Theatre

"Beautifully honest and funny... Snelling is a skilled vocalist and an ever engaging performer who knows how to milk a comic pause... A touchingly vulnerable show." - Beat

"Andi Snelling achieves the seemingly impossible... your eyes are utterly transfixed by her." - Syn FM

"Human, honest and gritty... The audience felt, and truly was, at one with Snelling." - The Barefoot Review

"One of the most standout solo shows of the Melbourne Fringe Festival this year... Phenomenal, captivating." - The Plus Ones

"She is a phenomenal actor and singer, captivating the audience during the entire performance." - Fringe Review

"Snelling's account of the value and the virtue of keeping a diary and her engaging honesty make #DearDiary a charming and illuminating confessional... An unpretentious show told with honesty and charm by a performer who lights up the stage." - Canberra Critics Circle

"Andi is a thoroughly engaging comic actor... The audience is hooked long before she has uttered a word." - Australian Stage

"Funny and brave construction of art from life... Andi is very funny, witty and a natural clown... This is a packed 60 minutes with no false steps and very revealing." - 3MBS Radio

"A beautifully crafted work, packed with clever charm and brilliant timing." - Melbourne Press

"An outstanding performance by Andi. This show is a testament to her talent and stage versatility." - Weekend Notes