This Review is from August 2026

Lady Bolognese are Bouffon/Clown performers Tanika Lay-Meachen and Matt Straker. In Class War they play dinnerladies, Barbara and Veronica, who have been brought into the classroom to replace a missing teacher. The audience play the children.

Though there is a compelling show long narrative, Class War is fuelled on audience interaction. The performers are grotesque and outrageous, but they win the crowd over and most are more than happy to play along. There is a real freedom in this style of performance that, when done correctly, frees its audience. It works beautifully here.

“What’s mummy got that we ain’t got?” These overlooked workers have never met mummy. “Tell us what she looks like.” The result is horrific.

This is Lady Bolognese’s debut Edinburgh show – and they are already stars.

A magical, anarchic hour of monstrous joy.

Martin Walker