one4review | On 16, Aug 2022

Edinburgh based Englishman Liam Withnail had a pretty damned good Fringe in 2019. He got a top agent, had a sellout show, a big budget for next year in a big venue. He was even going to run in the London Marathon for Amnesty. What could go wrong?
Well I think we all know what happened. Basically, his job became illegal, and everything stopped. Except for one drive in gig, at an airport, outside, in November. His description of this just has to be heard.
So instead of getting ready for the marathon, Liam got addicted to crisps and he is a connoisseur when it comes to this snack. And of course, there is Deliveroo. Too much, and having to learn to hide the evidence from his wife, a key worker.
He talks about pornography, the merit of free stuff versus paid for, who’s being exploited, targeted adverts, sex toys for both women and men, how lock-down has aged his thinking and then there is dealing with the London Marathon, and the trials and problems an under prepared and snack loving comedian experienced.
From the get-go Withnail had the room with him. His hour is a delight, well written, peppered with laugh-out loud moments and the whole hour vanished so quickly. I have seen a few of his shows over the years and have to say in my opinion this is his best. If there is any justice, all that he thought was on offer for 2020 will re-surface for 2023. Let’s hope nothing wipes it out this time.
5*****
Reviewed by Geoff
Monkey Barrel Carnivore 2
19.45 to 20.45
Until 28th