one4review | On 28, Aug 2026

Oxford’s Caitriona Dowden has clearly taken notes from a review that described her stage persona as pallid and low-energy. This year, she’s deconstructing that persona and turning the dial up to 11, becoming more outgoing and bringing her harp along for the ride.
From dealing with bed bugs in her accommodation with intricate madness, the show moves into her imposter syndrome around her musical instrument of choice and where it fits into her family dynamic.
Harp therapy, family Irish history, incantations with a doll’s house, interludes and wordplay all come together beautifully, with the audience even given spoons to join in with her playing. A brave choice, given Edinburgh’s Trainspotting past, where this could easily have gone in a very different direction.
This is the anti-white-male antithesis of traditional stand-up in its construction, and that’s what makes it so refreshing. Dowden is instantly likeable, her comedy put-downs are clever, and she comes across like a historically learned Hermione – the intelligent geek princess we didn’t realise we needed.
The whole package is beautifully put together- a great show with enough eccentricity and invention to hold you fascinated. At the same time, the history lesson is delivered entirely in words, with no distracting PowerPoint slop getting in the way.
Another brilliant find at the PBH Free Fringe.
****
Reviewed by Steve H
17.00 to 18.00
Carbon 2    
6th to 30th August