Scatterbrain explores the weird and wonderful of Shaparak Khorsandi’s ADHD brain. She takes us through the various things she has learnt since starting therapy and being diagnosed.
Khorsandi is incredibly naturally funny. Her show feels like a genuine ramble coming live from her thoughts rather than a set she does every night. A Fringe veteran, Khorsandi appears clearly comfortable on stage.
There is an informal atmosphere to Scatterbrain, with Khorsandi frequently commentating on why she is sharing a certain story with them specifically. It is impossible to call Shaparak Khorsandi not funny; there is humour in everything she does, with various anecdotes to support this.
The British Iranian comic takes us through every stage of her life, reminiscing on childhood and boyfriends. She shares relatable stories that receive barrels of laughs from the audience.
Every so often, Khorsandi touches on what it is like to navigate relationships not only as someone with ADHD, but as a woman, which prompts knowing nods in the audience.
Another key feature of the show is Khorsandi’s letters. She reads from various diary entries and letters from friends. The writings are amusing yet moving as Khorsandi talks about her struggles with sharing her emotions as a child. She compares this with the life and emotions of her children now, discussing the current conversation around mental health.
Khorsandi takes various ‘mental health breaks’ throughout the show, showing how she can take a taboo subject and make it funny. This show is an honest take on what it is like to be neurodivergent.
Shaparak Khorsandi: Scatterbrain, 20:00, Above at Pleasance Courtyard, until August 10
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/shaparak-khorsandi-scatterbrain
