one4review | On 19, Aug 2026

At the Edinburgh Fringe, it’s hard to find an original musical that actually works. Usually, it’s a parody from students or something trying to cash in on a trend or movement, with very little to offer.

Penelope is the exception. OK, it touches on one of the most well-known stories ever told, but this is a clever, funny and beautifully put-together take on the story of Odysseus’s wife.

From the start, we meet Penelope, waiting by the sea, longing for the man she has spent twenty years waiting for to return from the Trojan War. What follows, from dealing with suitors, her son’s disappearance, taking control, empowerment, and conversing with gods, is funny, touching and, at times, genuinely moving.

Alex Bechtel has created something special here. The songs are a mixture of classic Sondheim cleverness without the smugness, with a touch of John Kander, and are an absolute joy. Drunk Iliad is an early highlight, giving us the plot with Chicago-style sassiness, while Weaving and Waiting finds Penelope dealing with unwanted male attention, and Lose My Mind brings the gospel vibes. Expect a few of these to become audition pieces in the future.

Broadway’s Grace McLean is astounding. You will not come across a better musical performer at this festival, with vocals that fly and such command and presence that you think the stage was built not for her, but around her, to accommodate the talent.

Staging is simple, with McLean front and centre and the band around like a normal gig, and it keeps the attention on the artists and the songs with no set or flashy light changes, which is right, as it’s the foundation of this show’s success.

Overall, you are getting an original musical with the songs, performances, humour, and heart to slay the competition. It’s a proper little Broadway hit hiding in Edinburgh and, judging by the fevered musical crowds in attendance, it may well be their new obsession.

Grab a ticket now.

****
Reviewed by Steve H

Belly Button at Underbelly, Cowgate
Until 30 Aug (not 17 or 24)
15:45