Post by @federicabalbi

Seen at Edinburgh Festival Fringe on the 16^th of August 2024

5  stars – unpredictable and hilarious

Ashley Gavin is iconic. In the past weeks, her show My Therapist is Dying guaranteed her a sold-out Fringe run. As the title promises, it is a bittersweet performance, even though the jokes are fast-paced and flowing almost uninterrupted.

Be ready to hear about 9/11, Ashley’s detached mother, girlfriends, and mental health. The takeaway is double in this sense, as she delivers not only jokes but also some non-obvious tips on wellbeing and therapy. Despite this serious part, the show is an hour of almost incessant laugh, while Ashley makes fun of everyone, herself included.

Through irony, the creator of the podcast We’re Having Gay Sex is ready to challenge the idea that we might have of her. Her approach is always slightly on the lookout, like an animal who might attack in order to defend itself. In her live performances, nourished by constant communication with the audience, this is especially visible. While improvising, she shoots a joke, then replays it in her mind and decides whether to approve of it or not. Afterwards. And when she addresses an elated smile up and to herself, even if her shot was a bit too sharp, we can’t but forgive her, and laugh along.

31^st July-25^th August; 6.50 pm

Running time: 60 minutes

Venue: Pleasance Courtyard

Tickets and Info: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/ashley-gavin-my-therapist-is-dying

Website: https://www.ashleygavin.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashgavs/