Leave all expectations of what comedy should be at the door and enter the weird and wonderful world of Ceiling Fran. In an energetic 50 minutes, Fran Middleton’s debut solo performance literally takes you through a portal and into a realm of surprises, twists and turns in a mesmerising one woman show.
Set to soothing music, her candle-lit performance space could at first glance remind you of an ambient meditation session. In this intimate room, we quickly ease into our seats and are lured into feeling deeply relaxed – yet do not be deceived. As with many comedy shows, taking a seat in the front row is reserved for the brave and when Fran yells ‘catch!’ whilst motioning to throw a table at an audience member, we quickly learn to expect the unexpected from this wonderful comedian.
What makes this show stand out, alongside its fast-paced tempo, is its genre-bending nature.
Rather than being a straightforward stand-up, Fran takes us on a journey and delivers a number of often unrelated snippets with a mixture of sounds and sights that are thoroughly entertaining. The act combines elements of improv, sketch comedy and even a hint of Fran’s very own hilarious take on burlesque to ensure that there is never a dull moment.
As an artist, Fran has a rare talent of captivating an audience just by being herself. Without giving too much away, it is through this very combination of her unique energy and use of unusual props – such as avocados and cellophane – that’ll really leave you needing a fan to cool off by the end. The performance wakes you up, makes you laugh and keeps you on your toes from the moment she begins her brilliant ‘opener’.
This show is certainly not for the fainthearted. If you are looking for a conventional evening of stand-up jokes this might not be for you. However if you are into the otherworldly, absurd and all-round entertaining this is absolutely one to watch. Be prepared for something weird and you won’t be disappointed.
