Emer Dineen’s semi-autobiographical show, 0800 Cupid, currently running at Soho Theatre in London, expertly navigates the realms of cabaret and personal storytelling as Dineen’s alter ego grapples with an existential crisis.

“Is this a club? A fever dream? A staged memoir?” Dineen poses through her vibrant performances. Introducing herself as Cupid—the drag persona she uses to mask the cracks in her life—she boldly confronts the epidemic of lonely hearts while showcasing her talents through song and dance.

Once the playful “stupid Cupid” facade is shed, we are left with Dineen herself, a struggling artist desperately seeking connection and meaning. “Everything you see tonight is true,” she confesses, although she wishes it weren’t. In a matter of scenes, she navigates heartbreak, job loss from a call center, and a diagnosis of Tourette syndrome. Her new living situation as a property guardian, alongside a buzzing hive of bees, only deepens her isolation within the bustling city.

What’s her coping mechanism? Dineen opts to ignore her plight. Her nights devolve into revelry with strangers, fueled by booze and drugs. Directed by Phillip McMahon, 0800 Cupid unfolds like a pop star’s headline show, complete with clothing racks full of flamboyant costumes and a band ready to accompany her as she takes center stage.

Dineen’s dynamic energy is complemented by the exceptional performances of Carl Harrison and Isabel Adomakoh Young, who serve as her backing dancers. They represent the highs and lows, the ebbs and flows of her journey. Harrison poignantly portrays Dineen’s father, who is battling dementia. Though he never faces the audience, his presence resonates deeply, reflecting Dineen’s palpable love for him.

Despite the darker themes, the production bursts with color thanks to vibrant lighting, immersive sound, and anthemic music. However, as the narrative progresses, it begins to lose some momentum. The concluding moments arrive abruptly, leaving several threads unresolved. Dineen’s story is a powerful one, certainly deserving of a resolution.

Catch 0800 Cupid at Soho Theatre until October 26.