Inspired by the trauma of her own life, Split Ends deals with themes of control, obsession and self-discovery through a unique blend of human physicality. The one-woman autobiographical show steps into dark psychological territory, as Claudia Shnier bravely shares her traumatic experiences with OCD and coercive control.
In a dual storyline, Shnier explores her relationship with her own hair, specifically its removal, and how this developed into a debilitating compulsion she couldn’t control. The second story follows her romantic connection with a vacuum.
Split Ends is written, directed and performed by Shnier, who also created all of the video production. The soundscape and visuals within the video bring levity to the show. These video elements add a meta layer as she converses and argues with herself, breaking the intensity of her confessions through comedic expression and erratic dance moves.
There is humour in the absurdity as Shnier confesses to falling in love with her vacuum, using the suction to stimulate herself sexually and deep-throating a pair of scissors. These inanimate objects act as metaphors for people in her life, allowing a sense of detachment that, in her words, prevent her story from becoming a ‘trauma dump’.
The show is intentionally chaotic, offering the audiences insight into the ongoing internal battle of an obsessive-compulsive mind: “I wanted to highlight the damage that people leave behind and create an understanding of why we get addicted to people who hurt us.”
Her story will feel familiar to many, especially that one relationship that felt impossible to leave. In rapid-paced delivery, she captures the tug-of-war language, swinging from belittling disregard to thunderous compliments —“you’re all I think about” one moment, “sorry for being MIA” the next.
Shnier explains she wrote this show to empower herself and others: “I really want audiences to understand the difficulties of escaping things that ‘control’ us but simultaneously leave empowered with the knowledge that it is possible.”
Split Ends is confronting, raw and unsettling; however, Shnier shows incredible vulnerability and fearless self-exposure. She reclaims her toxic relationships and internal compulsions, creating a work that invites discomfort yet is ultimately empowering.
3.5 stars
Running for 60 minutes (no interval).
Split Ends is playing at the Loading Dock, Qtopia Sydney until 24 January 2026.
Recommended for ages 18+. Contains references to mental health disorders, sexual content, self harm
For tickets visit Qtopia
Looking for a pre or post-show bite? Beast&Co is located close by. For more suggestions, check out Bites & Sips.
BACCHUS AT THE THEATRE 
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