Frisky and Mannish have been Fringe stalwarts for quite a few years now, and this time Frisky has her own solo show (albeit “with the accompaniment of four accomplished musicians and a great deal of tech support”).
Frisky sings well-known songs, but she conspires with audience members to switch up the genre. After some introductory antics, we dip our toes gently at first, with a rock-and-roll version of Like a Virgin. It works, of course it does, and it’s a lot of fun. Then there’s a rave version (with Frisky imitating a vocal breakbeat), and an attempt at traditional Scottish music – a genre with which Frisky is maybe less familiar. Anything could happen.
Frisky is very sparkly in a green sequinned playsuit, an entertainer from head to toe, and she builds a great rapport with the audience. “Defying gravity. Do you guys know that song?” she asks, to our delight. Of course we do. These are our people.
The Wheel of Potential Musical Catastrophe falls on Donk, which is apparently a kind of young person dance music, and we are asked to choose the least appropriate song for that genre. Someone suggests Candle in the Wind, and hilarity ensues. Frisky matches her movement to the genre, doing the twist for a rock-and-roll number, and the sound team do a great job, adding dreamlike reverb to the rave vocals for example. Frisky is the whole package, belting with power and precision, rapping, and even demonstrating her skills at Gilbert-and-Sullivan style comic opera. Plus she’s very funny.
Frisky picks a delightful couple from the audience, and offers to select a new “first dance” song for them. The unlikely choice is “Sexy Back”, originally performed by Justin Timberlake. The longtime married couple dance together as though it’s their wedding day again, and it’s just the cutest thing ever.
I had a great time at this show, and I can see why people come back time and time again. There’s a wholesomeness to the evening and through Frisky’s expertise in crowd work, I felt bonded to everyone else there. It makes me happy to know that this show exists.
Frisky’s Reshuffle runs until 24th August at Assembly George Square Gardens with tickets available at Assembly Festival.
Reviewer: Wendy McEwan
Reviewed: 19th August 2025
North West End UK Rating: