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Megan Ford: Feminasty

 
Louise Jones Review by Louise Jones 4 Published: 20 Aug 2015 Underbelly, George Square Show Dates: 5 Aug 2015-31 Aug 2015

Feminasty is a rollercoaster of irreverent, witty humour with a real agenda at hand. Megan Ford owns the stage like an absolute boss and brings a host of characters to life, hitting the nail on the head when it comes to discussing gender politics and intersectionality.

The serious pieces in the show don't feel too dissonant with the lighter skits Ford performs, because she's got a natural skill for reading the room and easing the audience into the less comfortable topics of discussion.

She greets the audience warmly and makes it clear from the off that her show is aiming to begin a dialogue about feminism and the way women are portrayed poorly across all media. Her open approach to the show's theme is welcoming and doesn't feel patronising. Instead, her social commentary is an integral part of the show and skilfully crafted within the sketches.

The character pieces in the show are committed, slick and excellently wigged segments which reflect Ford's range very well. A particular highlight is socialite Trixie, whose account completely tears down the glamourisation of the roaring '20s. Ford revels in her characters, and even if some pieces last a little longer than their full punchline potential, they are excellently performed. Ford is not afraid to create a skit around an anti-rape PSA which is brutally honest in society's depiction of rape and victim-shaming. It's dark but it makes a point which needs discussing more honest, and in entering these topics into comedy in a safe, non-victim blaming environment, Ford's bold move has a brilliant payoff.

The serious pieces in the show don't feel too dissonant with the lighter skits Ford performs, because she's got a natural skill for reading the room and easing the audience into the less comfortable topics of discussion. That's what she's after: a discussion. Not just pointing out flaws in society, but also offering up her own solutions. Ford provides an excellent metaphor to rival that of the glass ceiling and when it comes to comedy with a point – a really important and difficult-to-market point – she makes themes like Gamergate and celebrity gossip accessible and entertaining. Closing on a rousing musical number/rap to call everyone to arms, Ford's got a talent for comedy and commentary that will take her far.

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The Blurb:

Debut solo show all about the stupid media from a piece of American trash. Armed with horrible characters, dumb sketches, and incredible rap songs, Ford takes down the patriarchy with nothing but her bare hands and some fabulous wigs. Overthrowing the dominant paradigm just got even more fun. 'Bursts with talent ... Leaves its audience gasping for breath' (Scotsman). 'A raw energy and scabrous humour' (Guardian). 'Big laughs and deft character work' (Time Out, Critic's Choice). 'Hilarious' **** (WhatsOnStage.com).