Edinburgh, Scotland — Hannah Gadsby returns to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with her latest stand-up show, “Woof,” which explores the subtle nuances of a distinctive canine sound that resembles a mix between a burp and a cough. Gadsby interprets the sound as a prelude to chaos, mirroring her own complex emotional states.
The show, which runs at Underbelly through August 25, features Gadsby in a mostly laid-back mode, engaging the audience with her witty wit. Her targets include pop culture icons and the oddities of social media, which she humorously compares to “the worst aspects of autism.” She also ventures into more provocative territory with anecdotes about the intimate lives of lesbian soccer players, though these details remain off the record due to their explicit nature.
However, Gadsby’s narrative takes a more introspective turn as he reflects on the disturbing effects of acquiring fame and fortune late in life. This soul-searching lends a poignant layer to his performance, revealing his struggles with disorientation and existential uncertainty.
Gadsby’s “Woof” is not just a comedy show, but a journey into the psyche of one of Australia’s most celebrated comedians, combining humour with raw, personal insights.