Comedy festival shows run a wide gamut. But I saw two shows that were autobiographical, about personal encounters that left their narrator's changed, and about sudden reunions later in life that reflect the movement that the years between has affected. Frankie McNair's is the show with the trigger warnings in the lobby and a lot of aftercare available if necessary - the encounter is childhood sexual abuse and its effects, as you might imagine, have been monumental. But the show refuses to be just an angst fest - there's jokes a plenty, from why the "Law and Order: SVU" theme is such a sultry banger to being the latest comedian to have their autism/ADHD diagnosis, to some inspired new clowning in a 30s Private Eye setting, to talking about growing up catholic, to the titular mindset which is truly inspiring. Frankie very much Goes There in her truthful, wildly capable show. If you're looking for tonal consistency in a comedy show, this is not one for you - it's a rollercoaster that turns into a tilt-o-whirl with a quick trip through the Ghost Train, with material that is deeply confronting and other material that is wildly goofy. But if you're looking for modern standup that combines thought with clowning, that's emotional, true and ultimately quite empowering, this is something for you.
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