There are some terrible people in the world, committing appalling crimes, but when news headlines focus on the perpetrator’s personal descriptor rather than the act itself, the spotlight shines in the wrong direction. The character in Trans People Are Awful is indeed an bad human being, killing cis men across North-East Scotland to strip them of body parts in his quest for an authentic male body. But he’s awful because he’s a murderer, not because he’s trans, obviously. Even then, he’s not actually awful at all. 

Subtext aside, this remarkable show written and performed by Ros Watt, is macabre, hilarious, thought-provoking and utterly devastating in equal measure. We first encounter ‘Boy’ as he films a video explaining to authorities (and the world) why he killed so many people. Covered in blood, and surrounded by countless specimen jars filled with body parts (well, penises), he talks us through the process, the rationale behind each murder, and slowly his loneliness starts to trickle out. 

So much so, that when he discovers something about his most recent victim (absolutely no spoilers here), Boy’s desire for friendship, human connection and a full life cuts you to the quick. Whether they’re hurtling through smart, snappy dialogue, leaping with agile strength and grace onto a table, or exhibiting true emotional depth, Watt sets himself out as a talent that demands attention. 

Trans People Are Awful, Pleasance Courtyard, until 31 August, 3.20pm; picture: Ella Carmen Dale.