“Grooming My Ass feels like a fever dream where we are robbed of cathartic clarity“
Upon entering the triplex studio theatre I was confronted with the sight of Ryann Lyn Murphy covered from head to toe in shaving foam. This risk-taking, unconventional mode of storytelling remained consistent throughout the performance and was often in its favour. Murphy is confident and unquestionably skilled, welcoming us into her space with ease and dispelling any discomfort the unusual atmosphere could summon by breaking the fourth wall in candid monologue. Yet, from the outset she declares herself a liar. This toying with truth, certainty and trust feels essential to representing trauma and manipulative power dynamics, yet sometimes impedes our ability to follow the show’s content.
Initially, Murphy plays an incredibly naive 17 year old entering into the world of sex and relationships. She exaggerates denial to a comical extent, emphasising the dangerous nature of her budding relationship with a drug addict 10 years older than her, all the while navigating a trans awakening. We want our protagonist to escape the shackles of a clearly abusive relationship- a moment she is somewhat afforded as she summons the previously concealed voice of her partner out from behind a curtain and onto the stage. Director Asa Nestlehutt’s ability to play with conceit, surprise and the symbolism of a controlling everpresence here is compelling and pleasantly unexpected. However, I wonder if they could have developed this idea further – after the moment of revelation passed the abusive boyfriend figure was banished to the shadows again in a manner that underwhelmingly diffused the potentials of a changed dynamic. Even after the piece ends, we are never sure the extent to which Murphy conquers her demons or works through the trauma she shares with us. Perhaps this is the point, but I feel her exceptional performance skills and important story were partly undercut by an unclear tone.
ROGUE arts aim to be ‘relatable to some and eye opening to most’. This was certainly achieved and their ability to sensitively platform queer storylines is highly commendable. However, the episodic and ironic storytelling style needed more consideration in order for heavier moments to fully hit home.
Reviewed by Ella Thornburn on 10/08/25
Show Listing: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/grooming-my-ass
LISTINGS INFORMATION
Venue: SpaceUk Triplex in the Studio theatre
Dates: 1–16 August 2025 (not 10)
Time: 20:15 (0hr50)
Ticket prices: £10 / concessions £8Fringe
box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Suitable for: 18+ (Guideline)