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Underbelly, George Square – Udderbelly
A stunning, flawless piece of musical theatre that deserves every piece of recognition and is a true joy to watch! Summary
Rating
Unmissable!
Rob Madge’s My Son’s a Queer, but What Can You Do? is a one person musical, inspired by videos Rob posted on social media of their childhood. These depict them dressing up as various Disney characters, singing along to theatre and putting on performances in their living room. Rob’s joy and love of theatre is displayed throughout. Their ability to story-tell is phenomenal, as the show takes the audience through the seven steps required to put on a Disney Parade in your living room.
Interspersed with nostalgic video content, original songs (which Rob performs beautifully) and engaging narration, this show is a true joy from start to finish. The simple staging is effective, with drawers, an armchair, rug, and photographs creating a living room space. There are fantastic costume changes, and props hidden within the set are used to transform the space into a stage.
The show’s technological capability and design is brilliantly clever, allowing a large venue to feel intimate. Rob’s energy, enthusiasm, and emotion is evident throughout and the audience is totally invested in the story being portrayed.
At times this show is hilarious, and at other times it is devastatingly heartfelt, but both allow the audience to connect with Rob’s story and be part of their worries and their joy. Rob’s humour continues to carry the show towards the end, as a lengthy costume change is transformed into a comedy moment and the finale. An hour of preparation culminating in a Disney Parade demonstrates not only the magic of theatre but the sense of community that comes from embracing differences and allowing everyone to be who they are. This is a true joy to watch – an inspiring, hilarious and emotional show and a performer that deserves every piece of recognition!
Written by: Rob Madge
Rob Madge: My Son’s A Queer, But What Can You Do? plays at EdFringe 2022 until 29 August. Further information and bookings here.
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