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razor-sharp characterisations

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Rachel Fairburn has two shows at this year’s Fringe. Her first, Showgirl, is her stand-up show, but with her other show, Side Eye, she’s bringing her character comedy to the Fringe for the first time.

From before the show begins, Rachel greets the audience in the guise of her first character, Daphne, who we later learn prefers to be called “Boss Bitch” and bedecked in a bejewelled hairband, she can teach us (well, maybe not all of us) to live the Boss Bitch life too. As the show progresses, we meet 6 further characters and their stories weave in and out of each other’s timelines. These characters are represented by 7 mannequin heads on stage with Rachel, each crowned with a different accessory. This, along with a couple of additional props, Rachel brings her characters to life with immediate impact, and some impressive accent work. 

Through the mouths of her characters, we explore their various sins, and with blisteringly funny  commentary and acutely perceived observations, we cover topics such as the scourge of ‘alpha’ male podcasters, how woman are treated in industry, that Fringe poster that we know we’ll see and the accompanying entitlement of an ego large enough to move mountains, as well as closer interpersonal relationships, and why you can learn a lot from behind a garden shed. 

These characters are given their own distinct voice and character, but not so far removed from people that we know (or likely, avoid). The crafting and the nuance involved in this world is just gorgeous. The only point I felt maybe needed a better bridge is the segue to the final character, as it felt a bit abrupt compared to the others.  

Given the intimacy of the venue, holding a “boutique audience”, I almost want to keep this gem to myself. However, you have to see this show, and you’re definitely going to want to tell people that you saw this show the first year Rachel took it to the Fringe. I can’t wait to see more of this type of comedy from her, she’s an exceptional talent. 

But if you do go, just watch out for that Leanne, she’s definitely trouble.