“It’s so stupid. . . It’s so dumb. . . I. . . Just. . . Can’t stop laughing!” cries an audience member from somewhere in the middle of the crowd as our devious hostess, Freidah, buzzes across the stage with infectiously rapturous glee.
Freidah, a quirky undead delight of a character, from the hilarious mind of comedic clown, Caitlin Duff, gently takes the audience on a journey to the other side across an hour of orchestrated chaos. This is a show that allows the performer to flex honed clowning techniques, playfully inviting the audience to get involved while keeping them safe and comfortable throughout.
While the show is somewhat at the mercy of the audience, Duff, never breaking character, handles every curveball with incredible talent and skill. As three audience members walk into the small attic room about five minutes late, Duff’s Freidah takes it in her stride, incorporating jokes and riffs into the routine seamlessly as if they were scripted and rehearsed days before. This is a show that will have you smiling throughout. Freidah is a character who, while mildly terrifying to look at, exudes creepily joyful energy. As the audience settles into the rhythm of the show, it becomes clear that the energy that Duff has created through a deliberate warming of the room will allow Freidah to get away with almost anything that she wants to inflict on the very willing crowd.
Without wanting to give too much away, there are some particularly excellent moments in the show which must be given credit. The popcorn bit is delightful. You’ll learn that staring at a microwave for two and half minutes can be captivating and side-achingly hilarious – so long as Freidah is at the helm.
As far as debut clowning shows go, 'Freidah Will See You Now' is an impressive feat.
Duff has successfully used the tools at her disposal to create a fun, silly and joyous show. Freidah is a mesmerising character, with whom Duff takes great delight in playing to her full extent. From quirky little facial expressions to funny as hell sounds, Duff brings Freidah to life and watching along is an experience I would certainly recommend.
