Susan Riddell: Duvet Day

• Brian Donaldson
• 17 August 2019

credit: Mark Liddell

Rising Glaswegian star with a full debut that veers from glum to fun

Susan Riddell has got to the stage in her life where she's more likely to cancel a night out than arrange one. She would, however love to plan her own funeral in the same way that people get very hands-on when it comes to sorting out their wedding day. This all might sound like you're in for a very downbeat and glum hour in the company of the 2017 Funny Women runner-up, but have no fear as the Glaswegian keeps the momentum ticking over nicely in front of an appreciative gathering.

Her observations throughout Duvet Day (her perfect idea of quality time, it's fair to say) are acutely crafted, and while she has plenty attitude to burn on the faults and idiosyncrasies of other people, organisations and nations, she makes herself the clown in many of her set-pieces: there was that time she was mistaken for a homeless person, her propensity for M&S dine-in deals, and the fact that she is now technically disabled (apparently being single can qualify you for a parking space).

Riddell finishes strongly on a section about sex robots and while she admits to being scared of the dark, it seems obvious that a higher profile and a bigger room will be the next things she'll have to contend with.

Monkey Barrel, until 25 Aug, 7.30pm, £5 in advance or donations at the venue.