Pretty Delusional (2024), theSpaceTriplex, Review

Image
Writer/Performer Gianna Milici holds two balloons, one red, one pink. She wears a long green scarf around her neck.
Rating (out of 5)
4
Show info
Company
Gianna Milici
Production
Gianna Milici (Writer, Lyrics); Shelbie Rassler (Music)
Performers
Gianna Milici
Running time
45mins

Described as a coming-of-age musical comedy about a hopeless romantic, Pretty Delusional does what it says on the tin… but it is actually so much more. On the surface this is a light-hearted, open exploration of writer/performer Gianna Milici’s dating life from a young age until now, but underneath there is a subtle examination of the expectations still placed on women by society’s beliefs about how they should look. Milici’s writing is clever, witty and at times, devastating. This is in no way virtue-signalling however: Milici’s bubbliness and charming humour work as a brilliant foil to ensure that everyone keeps smiling and has fun. 

Milici has a powerful voice and her lyrics are infectious, complemented well by Shelbie Rassler’s music. You find yourself singing along to songs you are unfamiliar with and yet somehow want to join in with: it takes a special knack to make a Fringe audience do this and laugh at the same time. The stage is not a big area, but Milici makes good use of it and there is a brilliant nod to pop culture with the timed use of a fan during the infectious ‘Hotter than Beyonce’ track – you will want to find this on Spotify so you can sing it again (and again).

The stories in between the songs are also entertaining and endearing: she has pitched her performance perfectly, balancing a good level of confessional with the humour. Catch this show while you can – you will not regret it.

Show Time: 16-24 Aug @ 17:10
theSpaceTriplex
Ticket Prices: £10
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pretty-delusional 
Accessible entry: Level access via main entrance using a ramp. Wheelchair access type: Level Access, Lift (Platform Lift). Stairs: Information not supplied. Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. Audio Enhancement System. Age: 16+ (Guideline), Strong language/swearing; Babes in arms policy: Babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 18 months.