When I first spotted the poster for Girlz, I assumed it was going to be another generic “girl band” show and was tempted to move on. But then I read the text alongside it, and that pulled me in. I’m glad it did — because Girlz tackles some big topics: mental health, media trolling, and sexual harassment.
The show kicked off strongly, introducing the cast before diving straight into the music. At this point, picture an imaginary temperature gauge — the kind that rises or falls depending on how well a performance lands. Within minutes, Girlz shot straight into five-star territory. The question was: could it stay there?
The acting was solid, the singing phenomenal, and the choreography spot-on. My only sticking point was the portrayal of the music mogul. He was played like a pantomime Captain Hook — the kind of villain you expect to boo and hiss. Yes, he was “evil,” but in a jokey, over-the-top way that didn’t feel believable. With such a serious theme, I think the character would have been far more effective if he had the quiet menace of a Peaky Blinders villain — unsettling without needing to talk quickly.
The musical doesn’t shy away from heavy, potentially upsetting scenes — definitely not one for the kids. Honestly, each issue it covers could fill an entire play, yet here they were condensed into a 60-minute Fringe slot. As the show unfolded, it stopped feeling like a straightforward musical and moments became like a gripping piece of serious drama.
The female performers were superb, their energy and emotion pulling me in so much that I found myself rooting for their characters. And that, to me, is exactly what great theatre should do.
This isn’t just a good night out — it’s theatre that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. I’d happily see it again, and I hope it gets the wider stage it deserves. For me, Girlz is a showstopper. Five stars
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/girlz
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