Natalie Palamides, a multifaceted artist celebrated for her sardonic humor and diverse portrayals, is currently mesmerizing audiences with her distinctive one-woman theatrical production, “Weer.” This off-Broadway rom-com, staged at the historic Cherry Lane Theatre, features Palamides embodying a cantankerous Gen-X couple, Mark and Christina, in a performance that demands extensive physical and emotional commitment. Her preparation for the roles involves a meticulous three-hour process of hair, makeup, and warm-ups, transforming her into the “Two-Face, but make it Y2K” aesthetic of her characters. Palamides embraces the grotesque and absurd, using makeup to highlight one unshaven leg and armpit for Mark, alongside fake body hair, while Christina's look features butterfly clips, a magenta cardigan, and distinct nail polish and accessories, truly immersing the audience in the narrative.
The narrative of “Weer” unfolds on New Year's Eve, 1999, as Mark and Christina engage in a quarrel that cycles through three tumultuous years of their relationship. The show invites the audience to consider both sides of this messy dynamic amidst a chaotic, yet tender, clownish calamity. “Weer” holds the distinction of being the inaugural production at the renovated Cherry Lane Theatre under A24's ownership, marking a bold artistic statement. Palamides, a graduate of École Philippe Gaulier, thoughtfully navigates her identity as a clown, distinguishing her dark, satirical style as “bouffon” rather than traditional innocent clowning. Her compelling and tenacious performances have garnered critical acclaim, with The New Yorker lauding her as a “physical-comedy virtuoso,” attracting notable figures like Drew Barrymore and Dua Lipa. Following its successful debut at the Edinburgh Fringe, “Weer” is set to enchant London audiences at the Soho Theatre.
Palamides's dedication to her craft extends to a rigorous routine and diet, resulting in a significant physical transformation during the show's run. She maintains a personal shrine of gifts and tributes, including a gold pendant spelling “WEER,” symbolizing the profound impact of the production. Reflecting on her roles, Palamides connects Mark's right-sided persona to Ayurvedic philosophy, associating it with masculinity, and contemplates the challenge of balancing masculine and feminine energies in her creative and personal life. She acknowledges the forceful nature of creative endeavors but expresses a desire for balance, articulating a nuanced understanding of leadership and receptiveness. This profound journey into her characters and her artistic philosophy highlights the depth and complexity of her work, inviting introspection into the dualities of human experience.
Natalie Palamides's artistry in “Weer” transcends mere entertainment, offering a compelling exploration of human relationships and self-identity. Her ability to merge the absurd with genuine emotion, and her dedication to her craft, stand as a testament to the power of performance to provoke thought and inspire connection. This production serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of embracing all facets of our complex identities, both on and off the stage.
