reviews & kind words

EDINBURGH FRINGE REVIEWS

★★★★★ -Mumble Comedy “I suspect that to get an opportunity to experience what is one of the finest shows I have seen at The Fringe, or indeed anywhere, will require hasty action on your part. ‘Book now to avoid disappointment.”

★★★★★ -A Young(ish) Perspective "In the end, Catholic Guilt is unconventionally enjoyable and conventionally challenging, a theatrical experience that pushes boundaries and provokes thought".

★★★★★ -Pow Showbiz "Catholic Guilt is 100% a guilty pleasure. Kelly McCaughan is explicit in all the right and wrong ways you never knew you wanted."

★★★★★ -Fringe Mum "Superb."

★★★★ -Gig Gossip "McCaughan’s unwavering commitment to her craft shines through, providing the audience with a thought-provoking and unforgettable theatrical experience."

★★★★ -Chortle "Catholic Guilt is a raunchy, unhinged clapback at every sexual and social hang-up instilled into her by years of religious indoctrination, which makes for an outrageously entertaining hour."

★★★★ -The List "A hugely entertaining clash of overbearing faith with irresistible sin."

★★★★ -The Wee "Catholic Guilt" is brilliantly performed, genuinely shocking (not an easy feat at the Fringe), and a work of extraordinary boldness."

★★★★ -Scots Up "Irreverent, shockingly brilliant one woman theatre to change your perspective on 'God'."

THEATER REVIEWS

“Of the capable cast,…stands out,…along with Kelly McCaughan, who’s funny in one scene and engaging in a wonderful, very Lynchian song-and-dance number in the next.” - Broad Street Review

“The terrific ensemble of… Kelly McCaughan,… is hilarious…lusty and loquacious bartender Erin (McCaughan),…All four actors deliver the dark laughs, eccentric personalities, distinctive speech patterns, and bits of physical comedy with gusto, making One Last Shot a most entertaining and engaging conclusion for MTC’s three-part production.” - DC Theater Arts

“With such a crazy show, a strong cast of fearless actors is needed, and that’s exactly what Geffers had to work with. The ensemble of actors…are fearless and dive headfirst into the loony bin. They all support each other wonderfully and fully commit to their disturbed characters…Kelly McCaughan also has some powerful moments as the psychotic Katerina.” - DC Theater Arts

“The clear delivery by the actors, as they move effortlessly around a corner of the park in Geffers’ blocking, is impressive…these and the other actors…Kelly McCaughan… believably build the characters through their portrayals. That, for this particular play, is no walk in the park.” - WHYY

“Kelly McCaughan makes an impression as Clover, who catches on to every card Napoleon plays but is content enough, and somehow maternal enough towards Boxer, to make any overt move to create a counter-rebellion.” - Neals Paper

“Characters switched onstage and it was so clear from their physicality and voice differentiations that it never distracted from the story…The entire female cast execute their multi-faceted performances with comfortability and enjoyment. Each actor plays several characters, clearly indicated by their physicality and vocal distinction.” - DC Theater Arts

“Clover (Kelly McCaughan) is constantly present…move beyond the simple convention of “being” horses to the more complicated exploration…All of these add layers of richness to the animal physicality, which is truly the raison d’être of this play.” - Phindie

“But, as in any farce, stage timing and physical comedy must shine. They do…Feminist Dolly (Kelly McCaughan) is overtly sexual and playful when being seduced.” - Delaware Arts

CASTING DIRECTORS SAID…

“You knocked it out of the park. You were so good at playing it honestly even though it was comedy. You kept baiting me and I couldn't wait to see who this character was. I don't have any notes. I don't need to see an adjustment.“- Alan Scott Neal (Jennifer Venditti Casting)

“You are effusive, have great energy, and are fun to watch!” - Jeffrey Dreisbach (McCorkle Casting)

“You were brilliant and I could see you on a comedy tomorrow.” - Mike Page (Day and Page Casting)

“Great vulnerability and ability to take direction.” - David Vaccari (David Vaccari Casting)

“Very good - spot on.” - Lisa Kitay (Suzanne Ryan Casting)

“You were very good and I hope we can see you for something soon.” - Dean Fronk (Pemrick/Fronk Casting)

AN ACTING COACH SAID…

“Kelly McCaughan is a fantastic actor. Her ability and talent to make dialogue her own and inhabit a character is spot on. Kelly’s work ethic and commitment is equal to her eagerness to collaborate and support her peers. She transitions from the stage to the screen without missing a beat of truthfulness. It’s been wonderful to work with her and watch her grow as an actor and a person over the years.” - Bryan Fox