EdFringe Review: Annabel Marlow… is this okay??

Talented alumnus of the original Fringe breakout musical ‘SIX’, Annabel Marlow, swaps the big stage for solo-comedy, and the results are a qualified success.

‘Is this okay??’, is a show concerned with self-validation, packed with self-penned numbers inspired by, and based upon Marlow’s life to date. Perhaps unsurprisingly for a talented young person, affairs of the heart and loins feature strongly. However, she introduces herself with a couple of very witty, and catchy numbers, including the delightfully sarcastic, and genuinely clever, ‘I Love Being A Relaxed Person’.

The early promise of the set is redolent of Victoria Woods mixed a pinch of the wit of Dudley Moore. However, whilst the quality of her song-writing, and her touch with the keyboard is unfaltering, the show slips further and further into an extensive exploration of love-life angst. Annabel can certainly write a good tune, plus she has impressive vocal gifts. Nonetheless, whilst she’s young, there’s no doubt she would benefit from spending more time gazing outwards. Navel gazing has beset many a fine writer, but overcoming it offers so much more possibility.

Now, if this were a straight singer-songwriter gig, rather than intended as a musical comedy set, there would be far less to complain about. High energy rants at apology texts sent years too late, and pleas for one last intimate moment with an ex wouldn’t be out of place on drive-time. However, if you’re going to sell a comedy music gig at the Edinburgh Fringe, that’s what you must deliver.

My criticisms notwithstanding, I expect this show will perform well amongst the Gen Z Fringe Fringe demographic. Talent, and hard work have made Annabel Marlow an accomplished performer and creator. Broadening her frame of reference, however, would bring in dividends in widened appeal, and expanded resonsance with the comedy gig going public.