The Breakup Variety Hour review: Familiar notes of heartbreak
Ariana And The Rose is an energetic and charismatic performer, but her talent feels wasted on a well-trodden tale of healing from heartbreak
The Breakup Variety Hour is a debut Fringe show by Ariana And The Rose (which is, our host tells us, her first and last name). She takes us through the six steps of heartbreak, telling personal stories punctuated by songs. Ariana talks about finding a new version of yourself after a breakup, but the show doesn’t feel particularly fresh. The tales she tells as she explains these steps tread well-worn ground, from initial anger to getting back out there.
Attempts to involve the audience fall slightly flat with a low-energy crowd, although she does a stellar job of trying to encourage interaction. It’s the music that’s Ariana’s strength. A confident performer, with a Disney-esque voice, her songs run the gamut from ballads to peppy pop, showcasing real versatility. Those tunes hint at something better but the show as a whole never quite gels.
Assembly George Square Studios, until 31 August, 5.20pm.