Fringe review: DYLAN MULVANEY - FAGHAG, Assembly George Square Studios
Photo credit: Marc Brenner
For those who don’t know a “fag hag” is a straight woman who associates primarily with gay men…someone like Dylan Mulvaney. The ex-twink turned actress, comedian and content-creator is trying on this new label for size as they tell their life story.
Born a man, Mulvaney shared their journey of coming out and transition on social media, so it seems only right that they have now condensed their story into a sixty-minute show at the Edinburgh Fringe. FAGHAG is told through the guise of an angel sent down to earth by God. We learn how religion played a key part in their upbringing as they were ring fenced into living as a gay man, when they always knew they were transgender. We hear how they have navigated the likes of dating and relationships throughout their childhood and then during their transition in the public eye. Mulvaney does not shy away from their mistakes, and this is an incredibly truthful but also glitzy and camp production.
Mulvaney is an exquisite performer who is so full of joy and charisma. The sprinkle of music in the second half of the show allows them to shine even more and we wish there were more of their gorgeous vocals. This is a one-woman show but there is a plethora of cameos played on a screen, by cardboard cutouts and even members of the audience. There are multiple call-backs which help to tie the show together as at times, the story feels disjointed by news and chat show segments.
Although this is not the first time they have done so, it must be incredibly intimidating and exposing to be so open. FAGHAG is, of course, personal Dylan’s story and who are we to criticise how they choose to present it, but there are times when it feels like they are hiding behind the high production hot pink set, which distracts from the seriousness of the message. The script is outrageous and funny but there is one section of profanity which made us feel mildly uncomfortable. This aside, FAGHAG is endearing and especially towards the end, there are touching and emotional moments. Mulvaney also tackles not just queer issues but the pressures of society and social media.
Dylan Mulvaney’s storytelling abilities are outstanding, and they should be applauded for sharing their trans story with the hope that others will share theirs. The message of acceptance is certainly received loud and clear at Assembly last night and we hope that Mulvaney continues to use their platform to spread love and positivity.
*** Three stars
Reviewed by: Sophie Luck
Dylan Mulvaney: FAGHAG plays at Assembly George Square Studios until 25 Aug, with further info here.