Words: Elodie Marriott

3 stars

Alex Franklin begins her set with a mischievous barrage of reasons as to why she’s transgender. Examples include: football forfeit, summoning the spirit of Caitlyn Jenner, and a lethal kick with irreversible consequences. None are true. All are funny.

Her set delves into her experiences with dating as a trans woman, exploring both the personal and political issues that sometimes complicate her love life. For the former, Franklin admits she’s immature (a poo joke that is repeated more than once confirms this). For the latter, Franklin presents her unique perspective in a chatty and informative way that is often followed by a musical interlude.

Towards the end of Kiss Me x, Franklin performs a song in which the lyrics are crafted from hate comments and fetishising DMs she has received. It is sobering, and has a profound impact on the crowd, especially as it’s such a contrast to earlier lighthearted tracks about beavers being reintroduced into the UK. 

Alex Franklin is a joy to watch so no wonder, out of the three options offered, audience members will happily opt to kiss her.

Alex Franklin: Kiss Me x
Jelly Belly at Underbelly, Cowgate 
14.25
5-30 Aug