Broke and Fabulous in the 21st Century Review
Image: Alexander Hansez
Set in contemporary London, Broke & Fabulous in the 21st Century is a witty, sexy and satirical exposé of what it means to be a millennial artist in one of the world’s most stressful cities.
Created by Dale Robertson (also playing Alex) it shines a light onto the not-so-beautiful parts of making it as an artist in London - from visa struggles, to the constantly looming stress of the rental market, right through to our love lives - it has an impact on all elements of life. We grow up expecting our adulthood to be this glamorous, amazing, exciting stage of life - moving to London, living in the big city with total freedom, exploring art and love - and yet the older we get, the harder it becomes. The reality of life sets in and the ever ticking clock of time is constantly looming overhead. Robertson’s script excellently explores these topics whilst still remaining an incredibly witty and entertaining piece.
We’re introduced to best friends Alex and Petunia (performed by Olive McHugh). Their turbulent friendship is as mirrored as it is contrasted. Both struggling performers, feeling hard done by the hand they’ve been dealt in life - they confide in one another of their struggles. Petunia is as glamorous as she is messy.
Clearly confused by the path her life is taking and why it doesn’t seem to be working out in the way she clearly anticipated. Alex is slightly more realistic in the outcome of his life so far, but is far more reserved in opening up about his worries. The pair beautifully support one another - both cheering each other on as much as they hold one another accountable. They’re both newly involved in relationships and despite the messiness that ultimately ensues, their relationship clearly never falters and they remain sure of their love for one another.
McHugh performs with excellent control and comedy - she fully embodies the character of Petunia and she feels entirely realistic - we’ve all met a Petunia in our time and that’s what makes her so successfully believable. Robertson’s Alex is glamorous and sexy; calmer than Petunia but he compliments her exaggerated mannerism with calm assurance. Rowland Stirling plays the troublesome Tom - the love interest of the play. He’s cool, mysterious and mischievous - from the get go there’s a reluctance to warm to him - he contrasts both Alex and Petunia’s openness and passionate manners, making the play even more interesting.
Robertson’s understanding of the characters is brilliant and the script excellently studies them both. Despite being set in a single room, the play moves with great pace and is a very intimate look at these character’s lives. It feels honest and like a real life conversation between friends. Nothing is over the top or overly explained - leaving the audience lingering on every scene, which is the greatest success of the play. Its honesty and understanding of the generation makes it incredibly relatable for many reasons, and allows you to lean in entirely to the performance and believe it from the get go.
It was a total joy to watch Broke and Fabulous in the 21st Century. I look forward to catching it again soon after its stint at the fringe!
Broke & Fabulous in the 21st Century plays at Gilded Balloon Patter House (The Dram), 2 Commercial Street, Edinburgh, EH6 6JA until 31st August.
★★★★★
Written by Annie for Theatre and Tonic, August 2026.
