A Tinderella Story: Swipe, Wince, Repeat is an hour’s worth of stand-up comedy detailing J Murphy’s trials and tribulations on the digital dating scene.
J is a Canadian and on the boundary between Gen Xs and Millennials. They’re also pansexual, and they relate some of their experiences realising their sexuality in the opening section of the show. J’s approach here is interesting, acknowledging that their understanding of themselves has changed over time. It’s a refreshing approach that reinforces that sexuality is often fluid, and subject to change.
How was it?
J feels great pressure from the impending milestones of chrono-heteronormativity. They speak of the pressure to find a partner, settle down, and have a family. All within a timeframe proscribed by ‘Straight Society’ as acceptable.
J’s considerations of how choosing to live their life in a different way challenges not only others but also themselves gives the audience food for thought. There is a very funny sequence regarding steak, the details of which absolutely cannot be repeated here.
The issue of presumed heterosexuality works in J’s favour in some of their stories, including when the ‘queer loophole’ allows them to spend time engaged in shenanigans at the Christian all-girls Summer Camp J was sent to as a teenager.
J’s stories, told through song as well as stand-up, are entertaining. Some of them could be extended, as I was left wanting to hear more about the foibles of modern dating, and how things have changed since apps replaced introductions from friends or relatives.
Final thoughts
As it is, some of the sequences felt underdeveloped, and as if J has more to say. A very adult show, this was a lovely glimpse into the quirks of twenty-first century romance.
A Tinderella Story: Swipe, Wince, Repeat continues at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe until 10th August
Featured Image Credit: J Murphy
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