Catherine Bohart

Written by: Si Hawkins
Published: Tuesday 8th March 2022

One random comedian, eight random questions; it's the ultimate test of funny person and fate.

Our International Woman this noteworthy Tuesday is the dynamic Dubliner Catherine Bohart, who did sterling work for the comedy community during lockdown, with the streamed (and now live) show Gigless, an absolute lifeline for lots of gig-parched contemporaries. Although she wasn't always having a fun time personally, as her new show attests.

This Isn't For You "is a culmination of the various breakdowns I've had since March 2020," Bohart explains. "I think it's the funniest show I've written so far, but then I've been my sole audience for a lot of the last two years, so I would say that."

But now: people. That show is about to tour the UK and Ireland, and she's currently kicking things off at London's Soho Theatre. "It's about love and heartbreak, self-improvement and dildos, and I can't wait to get it on the road."

It probably is for you. Catherine Bohart, your Random 8 await:

What was your childhood career dream?

I wanted what all young ginger women, born in the late '80s, wanted. To be Kate Winslet.

Do you have a favourite device, ever?

My friend Andrew recently pointed out that a Toblerone makes an excellent Toast Rack, so I don't think we need to make any more devices. Toast Rack? Toast Holder? Toast Dish? Toast Host? Toasterone? Regardless, a toast to Andrew.

What's the weirdest thing in your wardrobe?

Handbags. I never use them. I have a shelf of bags that I never use. In a flat where there's not very much space. I mean I have to keep shoes and tampons on display, I don't have the kind of spare storage those bags are acting like I do. I have had the same backpack for three years. That's all I need. That and maybe a Tampon Rack. Tampon Holder?

What's the best thing you've ever bought a ticket for?

A raffle for a house early in Lockdown One.

I've never really gambled before so to tell you that I believed I would win that house with all my might is to do my certainty a disservice.

I went on the virtual tour every single day. I liked the layout of my new five-bed but if I'm honest? I'd decided to make some tweaks in the hallway and when I could afford it, the kitchen would be repainted. I was so excited about my new home, I'd checked the tube routes to the gigs I do most often, I had decided which spare room would be for my parents. I couldn't believe how lucky I was about to be.

I did not win the house. A couple who were ALREADY PROPERTY OWNERS did and I spent too long looking at their photos, googling them, hating them, blaming them, cursing them and then thought for some time about how to infiltrate their family structure.

I don't think I should gamble. The price of the ticket was money well spent on a personal revelation, I think.

Which place you've visited was the biggest anti-climax?

My flat. For the six months after that house was stolen from under me.

What's your favourite mode of transport. And why?

Broom.

The Gravitas.

Which low-key law would you introduce, to make life better?

Houses for All.

What's the best Irish word, phrase or expression?

You think I'm going to tell the BRITISH Comedy Guide that? Le do thoil.

Catherine Bohart: This Isn't For You tours the UK and Ireland until June. Details & Tickets