So ‘not a lipstick lesbian floorshow for the lads’ but a call for unity in feminism as Ayesha asks why she is often called on by broadcasters to join in a ‘disco’ (or old-fashioned bitch-fight) with a woman from the right and relates with good humour, the fear and mortification of such an experience with formidable radio presenter and journalist Julia Hartley-Brewer. I wouldn’t want to mess.
As a political and topical comedy fan, I loved Ayesha’s 2017 award-winning show State of the Nation, with its sharp observations and farcical revelations from an insider’s unique knowledge. She was special advisor to the likes of Gordon Brown, Harriet Harman and Ed Milliband and since that ‘particular success’ has been earning her keep as a regular pundit on television and radio, writing columns for the Scotsman and London’s Evening Standard as well as her welcome return to stand-up comedy.
With an impressive political and comedy CV, Ayesha is an intelligent and engaging performer and storyteller with her mighty wit well aimed at deserving targets – one currently being the much revered feminist Germaine Greer and her questionable opinions about rape and trans women. An ability to craft good jokes and create funny human tales is clear but this is an interesting and more personal exploration than the albeit comical machinations of Prime Minister’s Question Time or the Labour Party.
Not afraid to be honest, challenging and touching, witness the brave admission of an initial snooty attitude towards a woman on a train followed by the acknowledgement of how quick we are to judge and how wrong we can be. It must have been pretty painful to confess but everything must be revealed in the fight for feminism.
Glad to see her perfect and hilarious impression of Ed Miliband is included, as she tells how her friend and old colleague came along to watch and support and then innocently stole her limelight afterwards.
As the #metoo and other campaigns gain momentum so too Girl on Girl will develop and grow. Ayesha has important things to say and as she entertains and exchanges views with audiences up and down Brexit Britain the message will get out there.
★★★★
Her busy schedule meant a short Edinburgh Fringe run at the Gilded Balloon. The show will tour Nationally including London’s Soho Theatre from October. For more information click here!
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