A politically sharp and funny, yet heartfelt story presented by an exceptional performer
Presented by: Holden Street Theatres’s Edinburgh Fringe Award and Jasmyn Fisher-Ryner / JFR Productions
Reviewed: 18 February, 2026
Every year, Holden Street Theatres searches the line up at the Edinburgh Fringe for the best piece of theatre to award their Edinburgh Fringe Award. This show is then brought back to Adelaide as the Holden Street Theatres’ headline show. It is very clear to see why Eat The Rich (but maybe not me mates x) is their winning pick. It is a tour-de-force.
This is theatre at its best. It is equal parts funny, truth telling and emotional, wrapped up in a ball of excellent acting and storytelling. The strong message of class and survival is prominent throughout and you constantly feel a strong connection to the storytelling.
This one-woman production follows the story of Jade, a working-class Scouser at Cambridge. She is secretly working as a cleaner which is looked down upon and not allowed by Cambridge University where she is also a student.
Eat The Rich (but maybe not me mates x) is the autobiographical story of writer and performer, Jade Franks. It is witty, biting and dark humour oozes out at every twist and turn. It is a fast-paced sixty minutes of theatre, but you hang on every word.
Franks is extraordinary. She is a gifted storyteller and keeps the pace of the show cracking along. Simple staging and set is all that is needed as it is her extremely well-crafted script that paints the strong imagery throughout the performance. Her playful personality oozes out and she has a wonderful connection to her audience.
It is no surprise that this show has picked up multiple awards and has even been picked up by Netflix to be adapted for the screen. Do what you can to see it in its Adelaide season.
Eat The Rich (but maybe not me mates x) is politically sharp, funny, but has a wonderful heartfelt story presented by an exceptional performer.
Reviewed by Ben Stefanoff
Venue: The Studio – Holden Street Theatres
Season: Until 22nd March, 2026
Duration: 60 mins
Tickets: $28 – $60 (plus booking fees)
Bookings: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/eat-the-rich-but-maybe-not-me-mates-x-af2026
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