Alex Franklin’s “Gurl Code” finds the comedy in trans joy and all the multitudes that it contains.
When so many stories about the trans community stem from transphobic rhetoric, their place in professional sports and the difficulties of transitioning, it is hugely laudable that comedian Alex Franklin’s new stand up show laughs in the face of these troubles and brings a sense of queer joy to her comedy. Directed by Dom Stephens, “Gurl Code” hits the Delhi Belly stage at the Underbelly, Cowgate to a warm and affirming audience.
Franklin starts the show off with a lively piano ditty about how she wishes she could dominate all aspects of women’s sport, and book and chess clubs too of course, which may give you some indication as to how this show will go. Being trans, diagnosed with ADHD and half Chinese, there is a lot for Franklin to cover, though rarely does Franklin tackle these topics head on.
Her comedic style centres around endless, hilarious diversions, always diverting from the uncomfortable truth with inane ramblings on raccoons, dogs and, lo and behold, raccoon dogs. Ranging from trolley problems to gifting friends furniture for their birthdays, Franklin’s deflections playfully try to reroute the play away from the central problem: being accepted for who she is. Franklin and Stephens’ construction of the accompanying powerpoint presentation is hysterical to no end, used to nail the punch lines of many jokes.
Alex Franklin’s “Gurl Code” is a fabulous stand-up set that packs the jokes as well as the pathos.
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/alex-franklin-gurl-code