While school friends were battling exams, hormones and curfews, Cora Bissett was an indie pop hopeful. Even the loftiest teen dreams come crashing down.

In a tiny corner of Scotland circa 1992, a restless teenager perusing the local paper came across those age-old words: Band Seeks Singer. What followed was a record deal that launched Bissett’s band Darlingheart into the stratosphere. In a matter of moments its young members went from worrying about school concerts to touring with Radiohead and Blur.

Twenty-five years later Bissett returns to the spotlight with an arresting snapshot of youth blown to global proportions. What Girls Are Made Of tries to make sense of the waves they rode—both highs and lows. Now a mother, the legacy Bissett leaves behind is all the more urgent.

Theatre rarely comes with a setlist like this. With the live band performing songs by the women that carried Bissett’s ambitions—from PJ to Patti to Dolly—this cavorting portrait of a life well-lived is bound to inspire new generations to follow suit.

Suitable for ages 14+. Please note The Famous Spiegeltent is an 18+ venue and minors must be accompanied by an adult. Warnings: This show contains strong language, loud music, references to sexual violence and miscarriage, strobe lighting and smoke effects.

PHOTO | Mihaela Bodlovic and Niall Walker