Medieval ecclesiastic history meets stand-up comedy in this fringe debut from award winner Caitriona Dowden. Edinburgh is a pit stop in Caitriona’s PhD quest and one that I hope will be fruitful for her. A part of this year’s Free Fringe programme, the show is well suited to its dungeon-like setting in Banshee Labyrinth.
It centres around Caitriona’s desire to become a designated Catholic saint- since becoming Pope is off the table due to the old gender issue. Turns out, there were actually plenty of female saints and mystics in the height of monastic Europe, performing miracles left and right. Ka-ching, Caitriona’s in; she just needs to work out how to do them herself.
I really enjoy the unique energy Caitriona brings to the very saturated fringe comedy scene. Pallid and low energy, she has a very understated deadpan style. I hope a successful run this year might let her come back next time with an invigorated sense of confidence as, proficiently funny though she is, I do feel a bit of extra oomph would probably help. That feels a bit counterintuitive to say- I do like her low-key, awkward demeanour but I also feel that she may be holding back slightly underneath that.
For a debut Fringe one, I’d say it’s a successful one. I think her penchant for theology could make a bigger splash in festivals to come but I suppose we’ll have to wait and find out.
Caitriona Dowden is Holier Than Thou, PBH’s Free Fringe @ Banshee Labyrinth, 12:50, until August 25.
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/caitriona-dowden-is-holier-than-thou