Reviews from the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, August 3-27, 2023

"One of the most unexpected shows of the year must be this one. Under the direction of Broadway heavyweight David Esbjornson, Trainor puts fire in the belly of politics and makes this a compelling, entertaining hour" - UK Theatre Network

"In this unusually personal and refreshingly candid insight into life on the political campaign trail, the inner conflicts of a middle-class man trying to make a difference, against the backdrop of Donald Trump's rise to power, are as much a focal point in Trainor Jr's warmly delivered monologue as the world events he amiably orbits. When both real-life politics and the dramatisations of them are often defined by spin, it's a refreshingly self-aware and honest perspective." The Scotsman

Outstanding Show: "A riveting hour of a look at the history and activism in the U.S. the past decade. Trainor’s writing is smart and packs a punch. His delivery is dramatic, poignant, and, at times, funny. He makes us laugh, he makes us angry, he makes us want to both yell and cheer. And maybe he moves us to action. Spend an hour with Trainor, hearing his story, and being inspired by his passion and dedication. It is important and it just might change your life." - The Fringe Review

"West Wing without the rose-coloured glasses. Trainor is easy to listen to and easily understood. He knows his stuff. If you want a picture of what an American, down-and-dirty, political presidential run looks like, you could not want for better."-British Theatre Guide

"Political Masterclass. It's a story that needs to be told, and that has the makings of a film or mini-series with a larger cast to capture the madness of the campaign and the country.” - The Reviews Hub

“Fascinating to a political enthusiast and elegantly told in an authentic voice." - Broadway Baby

"Manifest Destiny's Child is a much-needed chronicling of one white liberal's journey of self-realisation that informs and entertains without ever coming across as preachy. Trainor has a highly engaging stage presence that ensures the audience is with him every step of the way... combining humour with serious socio-political points to great effect." -The Wee Review

"An entertaining and enthralling dive into the margins of the political world of the US. Packed an emotional punch. I was gripped from beginning to end." - One 4 Review

"There is a real quality to his presence, which is exactly what makes it immersive. It's him...The writing is rich with imagery...His relentless commitment to doing something that matters makes the show a joy to watch, and entirely inspiring" - Entertainment Now