Clowning around America

Ruth 66

Smock Alley, Black Box

***

Ruth is a clown on a mission, driving across the US and into the arms of the American dream (preferably cowboy-shaped), while trying to discover a lot more about herself.

Ruth Lehane is the driving force behind this comedy show, careening through a series of misadventures with just a particularly vocal sat nav and a hot-air sidekick for company. The clever car at the heart of the set and the nostalgic Americana elements are sure to please a crowd, and Lehane delivers a typically energetic and committed performance, whether artfully switching voices and accents or tearing through a traditional Irish/line dancing routine.

Where the show slips up is in the writing. The jokes come thick and fast, but their frequently predictable and familiar. With more originality and sharpness in the comedy this show could really sing.

Ends Sept 21