Sepideh Kaav’s solo show, 1979 Persianality Disorder, reflects in dark comedy stand-up style on growing up in Iran (“we can vote, but we don’t have options”) and moving to Europe.
In a meandering and often awkward 45 minutes, Kaav doesn’t quite commit to her material, mixing some uncomfortable references to 9/11 and homophobia with reflections on her sex life, learning English, and visa issues.
She mixes reflective observations with songs and a style which doesn’t quite connect, yet, with an audience. The material is a little thin, and often tone-deaf to political and racial niceties.
Comedy to her is not “punching down” – she’s an Iranian woman, after all – but much of 1979: Persianality Disorder relies on clumsy stereotypes of her country and other minorities, making it feel a little cruel at times.
Dig a little deeper, and there are nuggets of a much better set here, but Kaav needs to think about her comedy persona and what is relatable and transferable about her material.
Her dark brand of comedy certainly has the potential to develop, and with a full-length show she could delve into areas much more likely to respond to this approach.
She is aware of often being inappropriate when she is expected to be tasteful – and that’s not always a bad thing – but in this show some moments hit awkwardly, and the overall effect is disappointing.
2.5 stars.
1979: Persianality Disorder was part of this year’s Edinburgh Fringe.
You can find out more about Sepideh Kaav on Instagram.
I reviewed from a recording supplied by Sepideh’s PR.