Real Talk: bad dates are hard, but identifying your own horrible dating patterns is worse. How do you break the cycle? Is the right person even out there? What if YOU are the walking red flag?

These are the questions presented by the super-charismatic Mariah O’Dea, using her most honest and reliable source of evidence – her own dating life. Mariah isn’t afraid to say it – the dating scene is BLEAK and broken-record advice like “there’s plenty of fish in the sea”, “the One is right around the corner”, “ask the universe and you shall receive”, and “are you sure you’re not just being picky?” is not only monotonous, but also enough to make any self-respecting spinster scream in frustration and despair. 

The show was a combination of stand-up and sketch comedy, with prepared props and, most importantly, a hilarious PowerPoint presentation. Touching on subjects such as first loves, finding icks on dating apps, and flip-flopping on her current situationship, Mariah’s self-reflection is so relatable that you find yourself laughing with her rather than at her (as they say, if you don’t laugh, you’ll cry). This show is a must-see for everyone because let’s be honest: If you’re single, this show will make you feel seen, or if you’re taken, this show will make you feel lucky.

Overall, this wholesome one-woman show definitely suits the FRINGE WORLD vibe. Although there were a few tech glitches, Mariah still got to execute her ‘big day’ with a (totally-not-scripted) standing ovation. With 2026 being the second season of THIS IS THE WORST, following her previous creation ‘#thenewme’, I hope Mariah continues to produce her amazingly witty and wonderful works of art for all to witness.

And my unsolicited dating advice for Mariah? – steal the dog (iykyk).