Ruth E Cockburn: Look Up

• Craig Angus
• 22 August 2019

This article is from 2019

credit: Andy Hollingworth

Convivial storytelling and mischievous songs from the Blackpool native

We're all addicted to our phones and tablets, says Ruth E Cockburn. She's unfortunately right, and confirms the assertion by asking for a quick show of hands. Look Up is a light-hearted show about trying to connect with the real world once again, and in the hands of the talented Cockburn, it's a winner.

Look Up is full of relatable comedy content, such as when Cockburn riffs on the sheer ordeal that is explaining your current job and relationship status to the extended family. On harking back to her schooldays, she recalls the unfortunate nicknames that can attach themselves to you when your surname even slightly resembles a 'rude word'. Her convivial storytelling is warm and assured, covering her childhood in Blackpool and her first forays into romantic relationships.

The most enjoyable part of Cockburn's act is her songs, which are eloquent and neatly arranged cuts, most memorably covering the politics of spending time with those 'he's not racist, but … ' family members. She has a nasty cold today, but deftly turns both that and the pub's customers mistakenly stumbling in throughout the performance in her favour. An hour of mischievous joy.

Scottish Comedy Festival @ The Beehive Inn, until 25 Aug, 12.45pm, £5 in advance or donations at the venue.