Review: GRANDMOTHER’S CLOSET, Summerhall - Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Photo credit: Kirsten McTernan

Luke Hereford takes us on an autobiographical journey in Grandmother’s Closet. With dresses, divas, mischief and music, this is a coming-of-age story set to the tunes of Kylie, Kate Bush and Judy Garland.

It’s an honest and poignant tale, with an Uncle who makes family occasions uncomfortable because of his homophobic opinions, but it’s Grandma we all fall in love with. 

Her encouragement and unconditional love for her grandchild is without question. It’s a celebration of her love, their friendship, close bond and later in life, that grandchild’s adoration for a woman who can still remember the good times together, as dementia hits.

It’s a beautiful story, told by Hereford, with enthusiasm and energy throughout.  The songs are belted out and at times, he is completely lost in the moment and the audience are along for the ride. 

Without Grandma, the journey of queer self-discovery would have been a painful and lonely one but with her, its full of glitter, fabulous dresses and just the right shade of lipstick.

A salute to a Grandmother’s love and a Grandchild’s devotion.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Rachel Louise Martin

Grandmother’s Closet plays at Summerhall at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival until 28 August, with tickets available here.