Words: Alex Grunberg

4 Stars

Alice Fraser is passionate about romance novels and shares her passion with the audience in her show aptly titled “A Passion for Passion.” Throughout her stand-up routine, Fraser makes an argument for the benefit of romance novels. She questions why they are so widely dismissed or viewed as something to be consumed with guilt, and makes a compelling argument on why men should read romance novels. Woven throughout are amusing personal stories from her childhood, her wild success in the niche audience of a popular podcast, and her experience on a long flight sandwiched between a recently broken up couple. 

It is clear that Fraser is a talented and professional writer in the intelligent construction of her performance. She deftly keeps jokes returning on surprising loops, sprinkles foreshadowing with a gentle touch, and interacts with the audience in inviting ways that make you want to engage.

But the real strength of this show is Fraser herself – her welcoming persona, her determination and creative energy, the way she laughs at her own funny anecdotes, and her genuine passion for romance novels. Her love for the genre is earnest as she welcomes you to love it as well. She challenges you not to view romance novels as books to be read in secret as a “guilty pleasure,” but as books that should be enjoyed and celebrated. There is something wonderful and freeing in choosing to engage with art simply because it is fun. And “Alice Fraser: A Passion for Passion” was very fun. 

Alice Fraser: A Passion for Passion
Friesian at Underbelly, Bristo Square
18:50
11 August – 25 August