Arts > Comedy

Katherine Ryan

29/10/14

The world’s self styled ‘Nastiest Canadian’ Katherine Ryan isn’t afraid to say what she thinks. And what she thinks about a vast selection of topics ranging from glamour models, children, celebrity culture and sexual politics is delivered in a frank and sharp manner that I found completely wonderful. ‘Polite’ was thrown out of the window as time and again Katherine’s cutting opinions made the Norwich Playhouse audience gasp in surprise and then dissolve into laughter.

 She casts her acerbic eye on ‘shallow’ topics, (the perils of panel shows, Peter Andre, Tulisa’s sex tape) but uses them as a platform to engage with larger issues like feminism and perception of class and takes the audience effortlessly with her. This doesn’t come across as a rant or a polemic but as one witty woman’s view on the issues. Some routines split the room, in particular Ryan’s review of her abortion experience but I personally respected her willingness to investigate taboo subjects through her comedy. She punctures pre-conceptions with her material and she isn’t afraid to get dark!

 Her high sweet voice matched with material that cuts to the quick is a perfect combination. Not to mention the added bonus of Katherine’s take on the ever gyrating hips of Beyonce as she waits in line at the supermarket!