Fringe Review

Sequined from head to toe, Emily Taradash struts confidently into “The Glamour Puss Show,” a solo stand-up set that blends Midwest musings, childhood memories, and a healthy dose of self-reinvention. With a background in backstage work, Taradash brings a kind of breakout energy to the mic—like someone finally stepping into the spotlight they’ve been eyeing for years. She’s got the presence to match, filling the space with humor, heart, and an unapologetic sparkle.

The show orbits around transitions: between places, identities, and stages of life. Stories from her Jewish-Catholic upbringing, awkward early performances, and life in Rhode Island are delivered with specificity and wit. Her material has a lived-in feel—especially when drawing from family quirks or regional absurdities—and the vivid details help bring the scenes to life. Crowdwork is playful and light, never derailing the flow.

Taradash knows how to set up and deliver a punchline, and her callbacks build a satisfying rhythm across the set. The early half of the show is especially strong, with tight pacing and clearly connected threads. Toward the end, the energy dips slightly. The final beats don’t land with quite the same punch, and the thematic links feel looser. The message—to embrace your inner glamourpuss and take up space—still comes through, but the show doesn’t close as confidently as it begins.

Still, there’s no doubt that Taradash belongs on stage. She has the charisma, timing, and point of view to carry a room, and the kind of encouraging, offbeat charm that sticks with an audience. “The Glamour Puss Show” is a reminder that the spotlight’s big enough for everyone and sometimes, you’ve got to sparkle your way into it.