An ominous warning kicks things off: She’s completely fine. Also, this is not going to be a trauma show. With that, Irish comedian Sharon Em sets the tone for an hour that could easily have leaned heavy but instead sparkles with warmth, wit, and fun.

The backbone of the show is her mother’s medical misdiagnosis, which meant Sharon was separated from her for the first two years of her life and raised by her grandparents. In another comedian’s hands this might have been bleak, but Sharon insists it isn’t a sob story. What she delivers instead is a tale of love, support, and the odd detours that make up a life — where even the darker threads are spun into laughter.

Her riffs are sharp and imaginative: the “holy trinity” of what locals called in the 80’s Irish spinach, which is like a revival finding out the ingredients of Soylent Green! the goth years and their dimly lit nights out, clingy partners, one-night stands, and the eternal curse of gym direct debits. These are delivered with wry affection and just enough self-mockery to make them sting in the best way.

She is, quite simply, adorable — but don’t let that fool you. Her comedy chops are undeniable: lean writing, immaculate timing, and an eye for the absurd that’s razor-sharp. The material is strong, the performance pitch-black perfect, and the audience are with her every step.

What makes Sharon stand out is the way she blends personal storytelling with a touch of theatrical craft. Her presence feels genuine, not forced, and her set builds with the structure of a carefully written play. One moment it’s laugh-out-loud farce, the next it’s a poised reflection — always shifting, never dragging.

“I Know a Guy” isn’t just a loose collection of stories; it’s a show that has shape, progression, and bite. Reality may get slippery in Sharon’s world, but her humour keeps it stitched together. Sharp, funny, and engaging, she’s a talent to watch.

****

Reviewed by Steve H

Venue  PBH’s Free Fringe @ Carbon

Time 20.00

Until date 24th Aug