Meeting of the Tweens (Untitled Theatre)
Horse Girls
Written by Jenny Rachel Weiner
Directed by Tory Parker
Review by Kate Barry
Entire contents are copyright © 2026 Kate Barry. All rights reserved.
Excellence in riding horses and being the best in the land. Hi ho! Isn’t it grand to be a Lady Jean lady? Untitled Theater’s current run of Horse Girls may seem like a sweet as bubble gum send up to the adventures found in The Babysitters Club but this play has bite. Edgy and honest, the one act takes a look at the lives of tween girls, their obsessions and their relationships.
These girls gather to braid hair, talk about boys, their love of horses and other pubescent matters. The ensemble has a strong hold on the hyper-speed banter, grandiose reactions with gossip about sex thrown around without care or self awareness. The impressive set straight out of a coloring book greatly aids with establishing this girl world. The doodle-like design with actual ribbons and trophies from director Tory Parker’s family emphasize the importance of hobbies, identity and the innocence of childhood.
And who would better deserve all of those trophies than Ashleigh, the president of the Lady Jean ladies and subsequently the owner of their horses as well. Played with diabolical coolness, Bailey Preston’s Ashleigh is a terrifying rich kid. Regina George and Rhoda Penmark have nothing on this ruthless leader who thrives on attention. Preston channels the needed adolescent insecurities and deep desire for love for her villainous turn.
Thriving on the attention of her friends, Ashleigh has competition and support. Jordan Aikin’s Tiffany is a natural leader as the second in command. Preston and Aikin are rivals with spirited clash as they both want to be the best. Aikin presents a realistic portrayal as Tiffany realizes the horses she once loved no longer hold her attention, a pivotal moment of growing up.
As Margaret, Amy Davis’ performance is specific in its humor and heartbreaking all the same. Enmeshed and eager to please, Davis recorder playing and hair braiding club treasurer embodies obedience towards a friend who is not so nice. As Ashleigh crudely hurls slurs and accusations at Margaret, Davis’ reactions are pure as underlying self discovery is at play. As action unfolds, Davis’ performance of a shy girl slowly reveals answers to some big personal questions.
When word gets around that the club may lose their beloved equine companions, the stakes are sky high. Laura Krauser’s entrance as Brandi is full of exasperated exposition with enough histrionic flair that it really does feel like the world might end. Clarity Hagan’s Robin and Ali Gautier’s Camille deliver many comedic moments in the wake of the bad news. Hagan brings some great physical moments with every leap towards their laptop. Gautier’s Camille delivers a bawdy poem so comically raunchy, it deserved the notable gasps from the audience. Adama Abramson’s Trish brings expert dead pan delivery with every over the top moment she encounters. Her reactions are relatable as this newcomer experience her first meeting with the horse lovers.
These girls go through extremes to save their horses. Phone calls are made to Ann Romney and even a bake sale is planned. With palpable tensions rising between friends, conflict erupts with violent actions leading to a conclusion that is dark, chilling and just a tad bit cheeky. With an ending so thrilling, Horse Girls is one you don’t want to miss.
Horse Girls
Untitled Theatre
August 28, 29, 31 at 7:30 pm
September 4, 5 at 7:30 pm
NoCo Arts Center
296 W 7th St
Jeffersonville, IN 47130-35
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