Banter Jar is a one-woman play about growing up. About sex and giggles, self-harm and busking. Hannah is about to go off to college, so there’s one final summer to seal the deal on childhood. For freedom and parties. For realising not everyone kisses their female identifying friends. For falling in love. And for working out how to love that person when their demons keep telling you to f*** off. Why is it always the kindest people that are the saddest?
QX had a quick chat with Hannah to find out more:
QX: What inspired you to write Banter Jar?
Hannah: I began writing as an exercise in lockdown. Remembering and writing. I realised that my experience was unique, and it started forming a play. I added comedy (lots of comedy) and read drafts to friends and my director, Chris Larner. He has been a massively encouraging force to keep writing and editing, and get to where we are now.
QX: What does Banter Jar mean to you as a performer?
Hannah: Banter Jar means a huge amount to me. It’s the first play I’ve written, has huge elements of my personal life, and I enjoy performing it and entertaining an audience.
Directed by Fringe First Award Winner (for An Instinct For Kindness) Chris Larner. Written and Performed by Hannah Baker.
Banter Jar is at The Lion and Unicorn Theatre. Tuesday 10 May to Saturday 14 May. 7.30pm.
42-44 Gaisford Street, Kentish Town NW5 2ED London, UK
IG: @banterjar
Contains music and singing. TRIGGER WARNING: includes talk on sex, suicide, self-harm and mental health issues.
