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Buff
  • By Mel Evans
  • |
  • 14th Aug 2023
  • |
  • ★★★★

The Edinburgh Fringe is increasingly awash with solo shows – primarily because of spiralling accommodation costs. And for these solo performers, there is always a challenge to find varied and creative devices to engage the audience when there’s only one person on stage for 55 minutes. In this regard, Buff breaks no new ground. In fact, the play relies on a very simple traditional approach – one performer playing a single role in dialogue with a range of other imagined characters.

While the play might have an LGBTQ+ target audience, it sheds some light on what it means for all of us to navigate life’s complexities

The play is nicely directed by Scott LeCrass, and the script by Ben Fensome is well-written.

It is a linear narrative, following the life of a young male primary school teacher as he navigates the challenges of adult life – while dealing with two major obstacles: homophobia and dysmorphia.

By now, thanks to our increasing willingness to discuss these issues, these themes are very familiar in today’s theatre. And Fensome explores them with particular sensitivity. We become aware that the protagonist is suffering from complex trauma. We see the effects this has on him and those around him. We also witness how he develops coping behaviours in order to mask or sooth the unresolved trauma.

The main thing that sets this production apart is the outstanding performance by Pearse Egan. He endows the character with warmth, vulnerability, insecurity, joy and frustration. His suffering and hope are relentless. We really care about him because we experience both his excitement and flaws. And because we care about him and we care about what happens to him, we are fully engaged in the story throughout.

This play is proof that the most dependable 'device' to engage an audience for 55 minutes is a good performance.

Going to the theatre is often our way of understanding ourselves. And while the play might have an LGBTQ+ target audience, it sheds some light on what it means for all of us to navigate life’s complexities.

It’s also very funny. Definitely worth a watch.

Visit Show Website

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Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
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Performances

Location

The Blurb

After a bad break-up from a six-year relationship, a plus-sized, gay, primary school teacher decides to sublet his flat to a buff Instagram model. Funny yet poignant, this solo-performed play tackles body image pressures, social media jealousy, and one man's journey to self-acceptance whilst navigating the toxic world of online dating. Fresh from its five-star, award-nominated run at VAULT Festival, Buff is a hilarious yet timely story about being plus-sized in the gay community. Starring Dublin-born actor and comedian Pearse Egan (In from the Side, Netflix).
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