one4review | On 11, Aug 2026

Written by and starring Sophie Sandor, Giro Baby marks an impressive Fringe debut. This one-woman show tells the story of a young girl growing up in Glasgow, her journey through adolescence, and the challenges of finding her place in the world.

Sandor immediately demands the audience’s attention as she steps onto the stage dressed in a bright pink tracksuit, her hair tied back, looking every inch the stereotypical 1990s teenager. From the start, this show is crammed with nostalgic references that transport the audience back a few decades. Mentions of Playboy merchandise, The Tracy Beaker, and the shock and heartbreak of Oasis splitting up (for the first time) place us in the 1990’s and provoke plenty of knowing nods and laughs from the crowd.

Although this is a solo performance, Sandor brings an entire cast of characters to life as she shifts between Sophie, her mother, teachers, friends, and a raft of interesting characters, I did sometimes find the definition between these roles lacked and was slightly confusing.

Through these interactions, we come to know Sophie as an intelligent, ambitious and academically gifted young woman. At the same time, Sandor reveals a vulnerability beneath Sophie’s confidence, exposing her desire to fit in and to be loved and accepted.

As Sophie searches for role models beyond the Paris Hilton, she finds herself drawn towards a 32-year-old local man, has an uncomfortable encounter with a questionable politician, and forms a friendship with a peer named Moonshine. Throughout these tales, there is a constant sense that Sophie is at risk of abandoning her considerable talents and aspirations for a future that mirrors her mother’s life, working in the local chip shop and entertaining a host of sugar daddies.

The production takes an unexpected but engaging twist when Sophie’s interest in politics is enhanced by events at school. What begins as curiosity develops into a passion that she follows through university and eventually leading to a promising career in Westminster.

The audience laughs with Sophie and roots for Sophie, more than these, however, we worry for her. Sandor ensures that Sophie remains someone we deeply care about throughout. I felt that that the conclusion was slightly rushed. After investing so much in Sophie’s journey, I was left wanting to hear more about her experiences in Westminster.

Giro Baby is a funny, heartfelt and engaging show that showcases Sandors impressive stage presence.

***1/2

Reviewed by Louise Heathcote

Greenside at George Street

Until 29th August (not 16th or 23rd)

16.10 (55 mins)