A show that one might expect to be limited only to Scottish audiences, but would easily draw in crowds from across the UK. I would love to see this piece tour across the country, at bigger venues (or at least ones with larger capacities), or even down in London!

At the start of our performance there were some technical issues, but Darren Brownlie sang the opening number seamlessly without a working radio microphone. We had a short pause while a staff member came on to stage to assist with this, but Brownlie didn’t want to keep us waiting (which was very kind of him, especially with the stress that already comes with a solo fringe show!) and so he carried on with a handheld instead! This didn’t seem to throw him at all - except for one moment of blocking where he clearly needed two hands, but this was outwardly addressed and turned into a moment of comedy rather than panic which is again a commendable skill.

Strong vocals sing relatively basic but effective lyrics, which both support an even better book. The story of a young queer person, trapped in a place where they are neither welcome nor safe is one all too familiar to so many, especially within the current socio-political climate and it is told beautifully through monologue, song, and music.

More than anything, it felt real. Not the cliché ‘raw, honest, and emotional’ dramatic ‘real’ but like just actual feelings and truth. Because it was (and is). This is definitely a living piece of art, and I can imagine it has developed from last year and will again if it returns in 2027. It’s one I wouldn’t want to miss.