Words: George Young

With three successful Fringe runs behind her, Chloe Petts returns to the Pleasance with Big Naturals, her fourth hour exploring the murky waters of lad culture, lesbian identity and personal reflections on family. She maintains her reputation for sharp writing, warm stage presence and well-crafted gags.

Petts is an engaging performer, adept at poking fun at herself. Big Naturals doesn’t focus on sex as much as it stays within the familiar sphere of her stand-up territory: lad culture, growing up in the 90s and early 00s, and her sexuality. This time she turns her attention to her idol, the frontman of Kasabian, and the public fall from grace that challenged her admiration. Her discovery of Page 3 models and her Christian rock band have plenty of punchlines that get big laughs.

There are honest moments, particularly the ending, which is satisfying and touching. Petts is fundamentally funny, and even when some references went over my head, her charisma and timing kept the energy up. It feels like she’s throwing a party, and she’s determined to make sure you enjoy yourself.

Big Naturals is an entertaining hour and what we’ve come to expect from Petts. A few stumbled lines disrupted the rhythm and occasionally dulled the impact of an otherwise strong delivery. In the end, Big Naturals is a solid, entertaining hour. It offers much of what returning fans might expect, even if it doesn’t push into new territory.

Chloe Petts: Big Naturals
Forth at Pleasance Courtyard
19.00
9 Aug – 24th Aug