Marj was 'written for those affected by abusive relationships'

Shetland-born stand-up Marjolein Robertson is to release her first stand-up show  as a free YouTube special on Sunday.

Marj – which she first performed at the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe – mixes comedy routines and a magical Shetland folktale to reveal a story of domestic abuse.

The comic says the show ‘fuelled a dialogue for those who have been in abusive relationships’ and hopes it can help others in similar situations.

She said: ‘There is a sudden shift in the show, the pacing changes, the style, but it’s written for those who are affected. I worked through the latter section with a therapist to ensure it provides hope for anyone watching. 

‘I myself was overwhelmed by the responses to this show at the Fringe and on tour. Every day afterwards I was approached by those who, heartbreakingly, had similar stories. I just hope this can help people. And also, provide a laugh. That too.’

Robertson was a finalist in Channel 4’s Sean Lock Comedy Awards last year, as well as in the BBC New Comedy Awards 2022 and is a regular panellist on BBC Radio Scotland’s Breaking The News 

Marj will be available to stream on her YouTube channel from 9am on Sunday, and read our four-star review of the Fringe show here.

Published: 31 Jan 2025