Bangs, Bobs and Banter: Confessions of a Hairstylist

Reviewed by Anne Bokma

The vibe is great galpal fun.

Take a seat in front of Nikki’s salon chair and prepare for a blowout of laughter in this one-woman comedy that’s a must-see at this year’s Fringe.

Award-winning writer and performer Joanna Rannelli (playing Nikki) commands the stage with charisma and razor-sharp timing as she brings to life a revolving door of clients, all unveiled through two neat rows of wigs and a single stylist’s chair. With each wig, Nikki transforms into a new, richly drawn character, delivering monologues that are equal parts hilarious and heartbreakingly real.

We meet a no-nonsense 80-year-old with a bawdy sense of humour, a frazzled mom juggling calls from her kids, and a persistently late new-age woman who shrugs, “I accept by the hands of time that I’m late—spiritually, I feel like I’m early.” There’s also an obnoxious bro who manspreads in the chair and spews out sexist insults as well as a Botoxed midlifer on a quest for love and the perfect vagina selfie. Each persona is more vivid than the last, culminating in moments that had the women in the audience howling with laughter and nodding in knowing recognition.

Amid the humour, there are poignant moments such as a client undergoing chemo who misses the simple joy of someone brushing her hair. 

Through them all, Nikki reminds us, “Everyone leaves something behind—hair on the floor, or secrets they share.”

Funny and deeply human, Rannelli’s transformations are so flawless and immersive you forget you’re watching one performer. She doesn’t just act these women, she becomes them. 

This show will stay with you long after the last strand falls.

Event Details

Age Suitability: Parental Guidance (ages 13+)

Genre: Theatre—Comedy, Storytelling/Solo Show

Run Time: 60 mins

Writer & Performer

Joanna Rannelli

Dramaturg & Director

Kerry Ipema

Producer

Muhammad Dewji

Warnings

Sexual Content, Coarse Language

Multi-award winner Joanna Rannelli brings to life Nikki, a charismatic hairstylist with a flair for storytelling. Inspired by true stories, Nikki welcomes audiences into her salon, where a lively cast of clients spills their sassy, saucy and scandalous secrets. This humorous journey into beauty, self-expression and unexpected connections is a must-see that will keep audiences laughing their heads off...without messing up their hair.*

Patrons Pick – Orlando Fringe (2025)
Critics’ Choice Award: Best Solo Comedy – Orlando Fringe (2024)

Sold-Out Run – Edmonton Fringe (2024)
Sold-Out Run – Orlando Fringe (2025)