Blowhole theatre review: Funny and tender theatre
The queer Bridget Jones tries to cope with modern dating and familial loss

Benjamin Salmon’s one-man play addresses the sleaze, excitement and crippling blows to self-esteem that play out over Grindr dates and DMs. He does it with a cache of sparkling humour and an endearing smile that barely covers the cracks. Blowhole has all the beats of a classic romantic comedy: a will they/won’t they story featuring the protagonist’s best friend and a relatable central character you’re rooting for throughout. Overlooked in the workplace and failing at love, the unnamed narrator is like a queer Bridget Jones for the swipe-right age.

Still, it’s not a complete romp. There are tender moments and echoes of suicidal thoughts that never quite bubble to the surface with the protagonist subconsciously mourning the death of his dad, which runs as a thread of sadness throughout. Each time the mood dips into grief and pain, the lights then change with Salmon throwing out a quick one-liner to up the tempo again, keeping the audience completely engaged.
Flamboyant characters like Star the yoga instructor and Nick The Prick are particularly well drawn and elicit knowing eruptions of laughter. The best part is that the ending doesn’t fall foul of cliché. Overall, Blowhole is a funny, poignant piece of theatre that perfectly balances romance, comedy and a hint of grief and turmoil.
Blowhole, Pleasance Dome, until 28 August, 2.50pm.