Review: Jen Ives: Peak Trans

Jen Ives image courtesy of the artist

Stomping on stage with clenched fists, Jen Ives quite literally tackles the myth that transwomen are dangerous, with humour, in her first full hour at the Fringe. Macho arrival aside, the show goes on to make interesting and thought-provoking points without hammering anyone over the head.

In her own words, ‘the world is not as progressive as you think’. Speaking about “trans issues” on various platforms, including a podcast also called Peak Trans, Ives is no stranger to transphobia. In addition to every-day challenges facing trans women, whether it’s related to dating and sex, being banned from women’s spaces, or accusations of being sex obsessed, she has also found herself embroiled in a dispute with Irish writer Graham Linehan. She checks in regularly with his latest insults throughout the show – a constant reminder of what it’s like to be publicly criticised – but only retaliates with comedy. This is not a woman looking for a fight.

The jokes, some of which take too long to set up, are not as funny as Ives’ spontaneous quips. But she succeeds in subtly telling her own story, including the insecurities she suffers from as a result of transphobia, while making sure to entertain.