Review: Catching a Cheese Pervert – A Frances Francis Mystery, Fringe 2025

Catching a Cheese Pervert: A Frances Francis Mystery is based on true events, although the play diverts madly from the story.

This one-woman show, written by Kayla Kurin, directed by Krista Rowe and starring Megan Phillips, sees a corporate heiress following her father on a Pan-American Dairy tour. The American company, Francis Foods, wants to import its products into Canada, but during this corporate diplomacy mission, a scandal strikes. A “cheese pervert” has been using her company’s cheeses to flash women at roadside attractions. Frances must find him while dealing with her father and the pressures of social media stardom, all while accompanied by a stuffed dog called Mother.

A Deep Dive into Social and Economic Truths

This show is an engaging blend of parody and spoof that uses humour to unpack some fascinating real-world issues. There is a deep reflection on economic and political truths that underpin the play’s wilder moments. For example, the play touches on the reality of the Canadian Dairy Commission, a powerful lobby group. It also references the American government’s “Missouri cheese caves,” a real programme where surplus dairy products were bought to stabilise prices. The play uses these facts to highlight a timely debate about corporate access and tariffs and how foreign companies might upset a delicate domestic market.

The show is a commentary on our social media culture, specifically referencing Instagram and Reddit. It’s the first time I’ve seen Reddit feature so prominently in a play, and it’s a smart and modern way to frame the story. The production doesn’t shy away from weighty topics, and it manages to do so in a way that is “proper Fringe theatre.” While it’s not a deep, academic dive, it definitely reflects social and economic values, making it “a little bit different” in the best way possible.

Venue and Performance

The venue for Catching a Cheese Pervert is the back room of Legends, a rock club in the Cowgate. The skulls and demons on the walls create an interesting juxtaposition with a play about a corporate heiress. It provides a unique setting that enhances the quirky, slightly unhinged vibe of the performance.

Megan Phillips delivers an energetic performance in what is mainly a one-woman show. The production is essentially an “active reading,” and while there were some initial glitches on the day I attended, Phillips handled them with professionalism and wit. The team showed great skill in covering up any minor hitches, making for a smooth and enjoyable experience. For example, I’m sure a key prop, a book, should have been introduced earlier to be even more effective. However, this is a minor point in an otherwise solid and engaging show.

Overall

This show is an interesting and timely piece of theatre that cleverly blends comedy with social and political commentary. It’s “proper Fringe theatre” in the cheapest place to get a drink in the Cowgate. The production is a well-researched parody that tackles big business, nepotism, and social media with a sharp wit. While it may not be a five-star production, if you are looking for something a little bit different in the Cowgate area, then Catching a Cheese Pervert is definitely worth checking out.

Oh, and there’s cheese.