“Inconceivable: The Totally True One‑Woman Semi‑Fertile Quasi‑Musical” is quite a title, and as it turns out, quite a show. Meirav Zur uses prop comedy, impressions, improvisation, musical numbers, and audience participation to share her real experiences with infertility. From beginning to end, the show is a confident, cheerful and surprisingly educational rendition of experiences many people have but rarely discuss publicly. The show is not just for parents, parents‑to‑be, or those who have undergone fertility treatments. It is a story that any adult (though fun and colorful, it is not suitable for children) can enjoy and learn from. As soon as Ms. Zur asks the audience to name alternate terms, slang or otherwise, for vagina, it becomes apparent there will be no apologies, no embarrassment, and no holds barred. Ms. Zur takes the audience through the many stages of her journey in a fun and entertaining way. This difficult and intimate experience is broken down effectively into clear and highly relatable anecdotes with humorous devices like the hormone puppets and the in‑vitro fertilization storybook. In one scene, Ms. Zur asks audience members to draw visual aids for a procedure she describes. She cultivated a personal connection with the audience, who remained engaged and responded enthusiastically. The educational aspect of “inconceivable” cannot be understated. Sexual health is discussed in frank and honest ways, with enough humor and playfulness to never seem clinical or dull. From the laughable ignorance of an average high school gym coach teaching sex ed, to physically arduous and logistically overwhelming fertility treatments, nothing is ignored, glossed over, or sugarcoated. Needles, hormones, jars, and advice (warranted, qualified or otherwise) are all discussed candidly and with a knowing smile. Musical numbers, catchy and clever, provide the backdrop for anecdotes and useful information. “Inconceivable” offers a close look at something rarely examined or discussed in a public setting. It emphasizes the pressure society places on people to have children, the potential difficulties of trying to meet those expectations, and most of all, the stress inflicted on would‑be parents. But despite this craziness, as Ms. Zur demonstrates, the burdens, worries, and struggles cannot completely erode hope, love or human connection. “Inconceivable: The Totally True One-Woman Semi-Fertile Quasi-“Musical”” Written and Performed by Meirav Zur Oct. 21 at 4pm, Oct. 24 at 9pm Dramaturg: Natalie Fainstein Production Stylist: Wendy Lehmann Photo: courtesy of the production United Solo 2018 Theatre Row 410 West 42nd Street New York City
CHANCE MORGAN is a writer and director currently based in New Jersey. He has worked for Dorset Theatre Festival, Northern Stage, and Bay Street Theatre. He is a graduate of Colorado Mesa University’s theatre program, and spends his time developing his screenplays and musicals.