one4review | On 21, Aug 2026

Rachel Fairburn returns to the Fringe with a show featuring her latest comedy creations. The setting is the fictional town of Harpurvale, a suburb of Manchester, where Leanne runs her own hairdressers called Vexy Beasts. Leanne’s nemesis comes in the shape of Julie Noone, a rival since their 90’s hey day around the beauty pageant scene. By way of nepotism, Julie has found herself with a fair bit of power with her job on the local council. This rivalry is the essence of the plot but there are many more hilarious characters for us to get to know. Nana Cheryl is about to marry her fourth husband, having outlived the previous three, who inexplicably met their end in remarkably similar circumstances. We also meet Dean, the alpha male who holds self defence classes for women but actually really thinks that they could just smile more and there would be no need. A real man who could challenge the whole “Me Too” movement.

Rachel cleverly transforms between characters effortlessly. The light dims momentarily and we are presented with a new character. The script and identifiable characters are hilarious. The show is packed with jokes and punchlines with some real laugh out loud moments. The show is fast paced and you really have to pay attention or you’ll miss the hilarious name for the coffee shop for example.

The good news is that there is a happy ending. The villain of the piece; Julie is exposed as a racist and loses her job. The future of Julie’s beloved hairdressers Vexy Beasts is safe. I don’t think I’m giving too much away by revealing this outcome. You really have to see this show for yourself. A hilarious hour of excellent character comedy.

****
Reviewed by Margot
Until August 30th at 13:35
Monkey Barrel Comedy at O’Neill’s (The Tron)