Fringe review: BUFF, Sibearita Productions/ Theatre Royal Plymouth - Edinburgh Festival Fringe

A bad break-up from a six-year relationship leads a plus-sized, gay, primary school teacher to sublet his flat to a buff Instagram model. This is a one-person play that deals with body image pressures, social media jealousy, and self-acceptance in a world where toxic online dating exists.

Dublin-born actor and comedian Pearse Egan is our protagonist. His performance of this hilarious yet touching script is impeccable. He has us onside from the start. Anyone who has ever experienced online dating, had an unrequited crush on a friend or been made to feel ashamed of themselves through others unacceptable behaviour can relate to Buff.

The fact that the script is told in such a witty manner, only makes it more heartbreaking later on. We are witnessing events from the outside looking in, but feel so much empathy for the situation that its impossible to not feel involved somehow.

A wonderfully written story told with honesty and truth.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Rachel Louise Martin

Buff plays in Pleasance Below at Pleasance Courtyard at 1.50pm until 28 August.