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Catherine Bohart: Immaculate

Natural yet honed debut hour that oozes planning and warmth
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Catherine Bohart: Immaculate

Natural yet honed debut hour that oozes planning and warmth

It's little surprise to learn that Catherine Bohart has the perfectionist form of OCD, as her show oozes meticulous organisation. Immaculate ticks all the boxes of a Fringe debut: confident demeanour, a strong theme, quickfire gags and the ability to make you well up a bit. There's also a reassuring composure at play here as Bohart remains apparently cool and calm despite the heat in the packed room and when part of the ceiling falls down.

But, of course, the perfectionist traits often mask an inner turmoil, and indeed there's that in Bohart too. The rub of the conflict is growing up as the bisexual daughter of a Catholic deacon in the repressive country Ireland was before the recent gay marriage and abortion referendum results catapulted it into the 21st century. But all is not gloom as Bohart richly conveys the warmth of her relationship with 'best bud' and pretty liberal dad, even if it takes him a while to grasp the concept of his daughter coming out.

All of her lines are well-honed yet there's a supremely natural quality about her delivery. No wonder it's only taken two years since Bohart hit the finals of national comedy competitions for her to create her first solo show.

Pleasance Courtyard, until 26 Aug (not 14), 4.15pm, £8–£10.50 (£7–£9.50).

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