In Bloom
08 March 2026
Old Red Lion Theatre
3.0 out of 5.0 stars
In Bloom recently concluded a small tour of London with a performance at the Old Red Lion Theatre on the 8th March. The one-woman show was created and performed by Louna Palombo, directed by Sofia Zaragoza, and written by Kiana Palombo. In Bloom is a physical exploration of intimacy and femininity, through word and movement.
Peony is a flower growing on a window sill in a block of flats. After observing the world through a dirty window, she is finally planted into the garden, where she experiences the forces of nature, from forceful winds to soft summer breezes, bees and flies, and through the retold experience of more mature flowers, Peony transforms and grows, eagerly gathering experience, exploring memory and herself.
The gorgeous world drawn up in this small performance is vivid, utilising flowers and nature to stand in for women growing in a changing environment. Petals bloom and flirt with the wind, stretching towards the sun, fighting against forces of nature. There is an ethereal touch to Palombo’s movements, her dance often speaking louder than her words. Imagination is tickled with animated metaphors, blending expressive flow of the body with colourful stories of intimacy and self-discovery. This little show packs so much narrative into its punchy 50 minutes, drawing up a unique story that feels familiar and touching. There are moments of humour, and glimpses of drama, all evoked through the words of a flower finding its place in the garden, dancing with the wind.
