Arielle Dundas explores how her ADHD affects her life with hilarious consequences
Reviewed by Amber Spooner
Arielle Dundas
Season: Aug 9-11, 13-25 Just the Tonic at The Caves
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/arielle-dundas-hyperactivity-disorder
3 STARS
Comedian and Youtuber, Arielle Dundas, was diagnosed with ADHD early in life, which as she states in her opening set was “a privilege”, nd indeed she sets to prove it is so.
We know that girls are often overlooked by doctors and struggle to have their medical needs met. Dundas mentioned how she has benefited from an early diagnosis and her knowledge of her condition is extensive. She knows how her brain works and she knows what’s funny about it. Often going off topic and then circling back to her main point indicating that it’s her ADHD.
This work feels like the beginning for Dundas. She’s a comedian to watch
She speaks freely about her experiences as a woman living in New York City, how she navigates a very loud and distracting concrete jungle, which would overwhelm even the most extroverted of people. She also discusses social issues and questions social norms.Topics in tonight’s set included: the difficulty to access the right medication to manage her ADHD to society’s obsession with other people’s weight. Her comedy is complex and interesting and she has fantastic stage presence. It’s clear she loves being behind the mic and sharing her story.
This feels like a work in progress. Dundas is trying out different jokes to see what resonates and appeared to run out of material towards the end of the show, opting to ask her audience questions instead. It is clear that she has a very captive audience who she relates well to given the audience response to the open mic format Dundas deals well with intimate audiences, not focusing too much on a particular person and it feels like a very inclusive, safe space. Her jokes feel universal and she envelops her audience, whether you have a medical diagnosis or not.
This work feels like the beginning for Dundas. She’s a comedian to watch.
Comedy (stand-up, neurodiversity-led)
Venue – 88
Just the Tonic at The Caves – Just the Spare Room
22:20 Aug 9-11, 13-25
1 hour
Suitability: 18+ (Guideline)
Country: United States
Group: Arielle Dundas
Warnings and additional info: Strong language/swearing Buy a ticket in advance to guarantee entry or Pay What You Want at the venue.
