one4review | On 30, Aug 2026

I discovered James Downey courtesy of a slot at The Comedy Cellar, Canons Gait, and it piqued my interest significantly to review him. In his show “0% Shame, 100% Irish”. This young Irish lad brings his very own perspective on what its like growing up in Ireland now, compared to when the troubles were at their worst.

His delivery is fast and quick witted, and he manages to whizz through his show at breakneck speed. Lots and lots of very good content, and as promised there is absolutely No Shame! His set is sharp and observational and although it maybe still needs a bit of polish, he delivers a well put together show.

We get to sample his guitar playing and singing skills with a funny religious song, which mixes up the content a bit. His themes in general are fairly universal, family, relationships, religion, but he successfully squeezes out some comedy in each of them very well indeed.

He’s off to a good start on his comedy journey; his charm and energy will stand him in very good stead for the future. Also big shout out for handling the Norwegian heckler on the front row incredibly well. Nice job!!

***1/2
Reviewed by Gavin
Lower at PBH’s Free Fringe @ Canon’s Gait
22.45
8th to 30th August (not 10th, 17th or 24th)