ED2016 2/5 Reviews ED2016 Musical Reviews

Buzz: A New Musical (Fat Rascal Theatre)

By Nina Keen | Published on Wednesday 10 August 2016

Who knew a musical about female masturbation was something we needed so desperately? ‘Buzz’ pays homage to the history and science that have enabled the sexual liberation for which main character Angie searches. Attempting to make empowering art is risky though, and unfortunately ‘Buzz’ just misses the mark. It’s hard to stomach a ‘feminist’ show so dated in its humour and attitudes that it calls a gay character “hardly male” and ‘liberates’ its main character by having her punch her ex. The historical musical numbers were often brilliant, particularly the part about Masters and Johnson, and the ending was infectious in its joy. But just because it’s a show about history doesn’t excuse it from outdated attitudes.

Greenside @ Infirmary Street, until 27 Aug.
tw rating 2/5 | [Nina Keen]