Liverpudlian goes to Cambridge
“Eat the Rich.”
The phrase is commonly, but wrongly, attributed to political philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, from a quote first popularized during the French Revolution: “When the people shall have nothing more to eat, they will eat the rich”.
Jade Franks’ one-woman show storms into the Fringe once again. One of the standout comedians of previous years, she returns with her solo performance in the Pleasance Bunkers. For an hour, the Liverpudlian recounts her journey from call centre operative to gaining entry into a Cambridge college.
She describes herself as “Forrest Gump in a blouse” when dealing with students and Masters alike. At one of the famous college balls, wearing new gold three-inch platform shoes, she meets Harry, who “owns land.” While she is dressed up and they are dressed down, she becomes the butt of jokes from the female “in crowd.” Yet, her determination never wavers, and she eventually becomes close friends with them.
With little money beyond her grant, she takes a job as a cleaner at the college. When reported to the Master for breaking the rules, instead of being disciplined she is unexpectedly given financial support and even a free laptop!
She cleverly contrasts Liverpool and Cambridge: Liverpool boasts 23 Greggs, while Cambridge has just two. Her story is both inspirational and sharply told. Whether or not every detail is true, it is certainly funny, engaging, and never lags. At the performance I attended, every seat was filled, and nobody left disappointed. I thoroughly recommend it.
Theatrevibe, the site that doesn’t do stars, gives Eat The Rich Five Filthy Rich Stars for brilliant comedy.
Malcolm Beckett has been reviewing theatre since 2017
Production Notes
EAT THE RICH1
Written and performed by Jade Franks
Directed by Tatenda Shamiso
Cast
Starring:
Jade Franks
Creatives
Information
Running Time: 60 minutes
Booking to 25th August 2025 but SOLD OUT
Address:
Pleasance Courtyard
BUNKER ONE at 2.15pm
60 Pleasance
Edinburgh EH8 9TJ
Reviewed by Malcolm Beckett at the
Pleasance Courtyard BUNKER ONE
at 2.15pm on Wednesday 14th August