"Every time you were taught how to cross your legs, pick out the right ribbons for a bonnet… it felt rather like watching someone break a horse"

I was fortunate enough to see this production a few years ago when it was done as part of the Stage Struck Festival. As a nonbinary person, this line stuck with me literally over years. I knew I had to see this production again this Fringe Festival.

If this show is put up again, I highly recommend checking it out. The writing is so witty, and so funny. Yet it doesn't shy away from moments of genuine connection, true tenderness and real grief- but it never allows you to wallow. I found myself tearing up, and laughing in the same breath.

With robust performances by the two performers, we didn't miss a larger ensemble. Both actors did an excellent job of portraying the various characters of the show, without muddying or confusing the audience on which character we were seeing.

Also, for a show so centered around queerness, it was incredibly refreshing to see actors portraying genders they may not traditionally be cast as-- without that being the butt of the joke. Aunt Margaret, for example, was hilarious because she was witty, forward and wise, not because she was being played by man.

The set was perfect, just enough pieces to make the stage feel complete, without having useless pieces that are never interacted with. The transition music helped set the scene, without beating us over the head with emotionality. The costumes were gorgeous- and I especially appreciate that just single props were used to protray different characters without the actors feeling the need to drag the show by doing full costume changes.

I can't praise the pacing enough. The tender moments had enough time to breath, but otherwise the show really clipped along without ever feeling rushed.

One final shoutout for the land acknowledgement. I will clarify that I am not Indigenous, so obviously other voices are worth more- but I do appreciate the acknowledgement that we are only able to create on this land because of very real and genuine harm that has occured- especially when the show is set in regency/colonial roots.

I think if you are a Queer person, and want to see Queer art, done by Queer folks, that isn't just another iteration of Bury Your Gays this is the show for you. If you have Queer folks in your life and want to see examples of how to be supportive- this is the show for you. Or if you just want to see a witty comedy, with vulnerable moments- this is the show for you!

I would love to see this show again, and hope that this isn't the end for Confirmed Bachelors!