Grace Mulvey is very, very funny. In the intimate surroundings of The Box, she delivers a heartfelt energetic hour that moves effortlessly between Irish politics, her dating life alongside the complicated business of figuring out who you are.
Much of the show centres on Mulvey’s relationship with her father and his excellent fashion choice of a helmet and high vis, his obsession becomes a golden thread throughout the show. She also reflects on (in her words) being fat and growing up in Ireland being self-conscious and reaching a point in her life where she simply doesn’t care anymore. These personal stories sit comfortably with shaper observations about Ireland’s changing social landscape, including votes on marriage equality and abortion.
A main highlight of the show is the large screen behind her, which displays photographs and PowerPoint style images (such as her dad in his impeccable high vis style) while she is deep in story. At one point, she even measures an audience members head to settle the question of who has a larger head! Behind the craziness, Mulvey enters an unexpectedly touching moment, discussing her father’s dementia. To me, this show almost felt like a thank you letter to her dad that’s shaped the woman who performs today.
If you’re Irish, you’ll love this show. If you’re not, you’ll leave with a newfound love for Irish dads and the wonderfully chaotic charm of being Irish.
Grace Mulvey: Gigantica, 15:00 at The Box at Assembly George Square at 3pm from August 5-30th
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/grace-mulvey-gigantica
