Created and Performed by James Barr. Directed by Madeleine Parry. Presented by W!ZARD Live
James Barr’s not-to-be-missed Fringe show is polished, well-written and tragically relevant
Reviewed by Amber Spooner
Underbelly George Square
Season: 30TH July – 24th August
Tickets: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/james-barr-sorry-i-hurt-your-son-said-my-ex-to-my-mum
5 STARS
James Barr is a comedian, broadcaster and podcaster with a story that sadly isn’t as uncommon as we think. Sorry I hurt your son (Said my ex to my Mum) details Barr’s four year relationship with his abusive ex. He tells the story chronically allowing the audience to travel with him as he details his life before meeting his now ex, meeting, and then dating to finally moving in together. A seemingly perfect relationship. But in reality, Barr was trapped.
Barr tells his story in a way that is unflinching, open and honest about what he was thinking and feeling at the time. Sadly his experience isn’t unusual amongst domestic violence survivors. He talks about how he made excuses for his partner’s behaviour or blamed himself for their actions before he made the courageous decision to leave. These moments in the show are what make it so impactful. Directed by Madeline Parry, this really is a beautiful show.
Barr has mastered the balance between comedy and tragedy and he is so aware of the energy in the room. As an audience member you really feel taken care of. Barr is able to sit in the silence and allow all of us to sit with him. His comedy is sharp, witty and clever. It’s a very well written, polished show and it’s clear Barr is determined to spread a message that doesn’t get talked about enough in our society.
Sorry I hurt your son (said my ex to my Mum) is a wonderful addition to this year’s line up. Not to be missed.
Find all the shows on offer at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for 2025 here
