one4review | On 21, Aug 2022

Richard Stott tells us a story about having a minor existential crisis, about not being where you thought you would be at this point in life, and about not becoming the adult you thought you would. He feels, he explains, like he’s at an after party, and isn’t sure he wants to be any more.

Mr Stott is a genial presence, and after slightly unsure start, keeps the interest of the audience. He tells his story well: we never get lost in the weeds, and there’s clear narrative hand-rail to hold on to, culminating in an effective and pleasing ending. Though there is an upward trend towards that denouement, much of the show felt a bit maudlin: we’re dealing with heavy topics, yes, but I prefer my comedy to lift my spirits rather than weight them down.

Mr Stott is a competent, if (in this show) slightly emo performer, and his comedy is similarly competent, if, in places, quite standard. There is however, some trope inverting and subverting, and both this and the ending revive the show, discharging the audience feeling entertained and generally uplifted.

Reveiwed by Laura

Underbelly Bristo Square
16:15