It’s not often I see a show that gives me a full visceral response, but last night I laughed, I cried AND I laugh-cried.

I turned up at Trades Hall expecting just another drag show. I have seen a few over the years and I can confirm whole heartedly that Leather Lungs: Happy Ending is not just another drag show.

Sure Leather Lungs: Happy Ending had its share of bawdy jokes, rampant silliness, and of course a great frock made by Leather Lungs’s (aka Jason Chasland) mum, but the show was also a genuine heartfelt and powerful personal story of survival and backing yourself.

The biggest surprise of all was their voice. Beautiful, powerful and with a range that spans four octaves they belted out songs by ABBA, Whitney Houston and Queen selected to accompany their story that talks about serious issues delivered with humour to lighten the tone.

Trades Hall is a great venue for Melbourne Fringe with all its nooks and crannies. I made a night of it with friends by popping across to The Lincoln for a meal and then catching a late show at 9.30 as well – Ned Kelly: the Big Gay Musical – a joyful singing and dancing re-imagining of our iconic bushranger.

So get your Fringe on for an artistic feast. There is so much art on offer to expand, affirm and challenge your thinking – a night of escape into the creative arts is food for the soul.

Leather Lungs: Happy Ending runs untill 15th October so there is still a chance to catch this amazing talent. Tickets available at Melbourne Fringe.