Every Edinburgh Fringe sparks a new trend in comedy subject matter. One year it was Tinder, last year every show seemed to have a twist tragic ending and this year I have been to three shows in which the comedian has uttered the word “bum-hole.” And three marks an unexpected trend my friend. What I didn’t expect was Ellie Taylor to be the one who would make up the ‘bum-hole’ trifecta.
But This Guy isn’t all about bum-holes, instead Ellie talks about being married and childfree. Being in this position apparently invites questions about when a child is going to show up, Ellie’s mother and mother-in-law have been very forward about their desire for a new grandchild.
Ellie echoes some of the issues Kiri Pritchard-McLean brings up in Appropriate Adult regarding potential parenthood, namely not feeling adult enough and adoption. Although where Kiri is talking about child adoption Ellie is leaning more towards adopting a cat.
Animated and self-deprecating the 2016 Funny Women Awards mentor is at her funniest when talking about her family – I didn’t know mild contempt could come across as so affectionate. It seems no-one is safe, not her husband who in spite of having a dramatic job repeatedly fails to give her drama for her shows, not her sister or even her young nephew. Also I never thought I’d identify with someone over plastic bags and I hope one day Ellie and I will be part of a plastic bag hierarchy Whatsapp group chat.
An accomplished show that examines marriage, womanhood and the dreaded biological clock with great wit and an impressively light touch.
★★★★★
Ellie Taylor: This Guy is at the Pleasance Courtyard, Beneath at 17:45 until 27th August. For tickets and more information click here!
