The topless poster and the promise of a show about public masturbation might lead you to believe Olivia Levine’s stand up is a different beast than it is. Scandalous yes, but not theatrical and heartfelt like the show I’m watching.
Rather, after reeling us audience members in with taboo, Olivia begins her earnest tales of growing up neurodivergent. She describes her burgeoning OCD ticks and coping mechanisms, and explains for the ignorant among us, myself included, how her disorder affects every part of her development into adulthood.
Before sitting down to watch the set, I’ll admit I knew very little about what OCD really is besides the tired stereotypes about cleaning and being a bit highly strung. Olivia reveals in her hour long set just how much more it encompasses- from being afraid her genitals could kill people, to obsessively calling her girlfriend’s boss when she doesn’t answer the phone.
Its absolutely unflinching, and told with real expertise. More elegant than simple stand up, Olivia’s show is well thought through and artistic. The material is at times shocking in its frankness. However, the set’s freshness and honesty prevents us becoming too alarmed. Above all, as she recounts her struggles and embarrassments, Olivia becomes someone we want to root for.
Although absolutely funny, we are never allowed too much room to get carried away with the show’s humour. Always, we are reminded of the real her disorder is for her. This double edged performance, as much tinged with solemnity as it is comedy creates a unique and complex atmosphere which is far more than the sum of its parts. Overall, Olivia Levine’s show was challenging, educational, and certainly unforgettable. I highly recommend those not prone to squeamishness to go and see her.
Olivia Levine: Unstuck, 19.30, Just the Tonic at the Mash House until August 25
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/olivia-levine-unstuck.
