I have long been a fan of Australian comedian Rhys Nicholson, their particular mix of sardonic, cynical and effortless quick-wit actually leaving me tired from the physical exertion of laughing so much. Their shows have become a bit of an annual Fringe treat for me: a safety net of quality against the uncertainty of picking random shows to review.
So when I say that this is their best show to date, know just what a high bar that is, and how great this show truly is for me to say that. I've already purchased tickets to see the show again when they're on tour later this year. That's how good this show is.
Now married, Nicholson is being bombarded with the question everyone hates: "when are you going to have kids?" Mind your own business! But it’s a genuinely challenging question, always asked by haggard-looking parents who proclaim it’s the most rewarding thing. The show tackles that relationship debate, alongside more anecdotal experiences, such as a late-night A&E trip and the porn distribution side-hustle they had in school. With jokes coming non-stop, the show was delivered at a frenetic pace. Rhys's brain whirls at 100mph, with a constant twitchy energy that betrays their ADHD... And maybe their uppers abuse in their 20s.
Nicholson, in many ways, feels like the voice of a generation, accurately if not succinctly capturing all the angst, concerns, wants, aspirations and desires those in their 30s have. Most (upsettingly) relatable is one anecdote they tell about having to go to the doctor, and simply being told they're "at that age" where things just hurt. Soul crushing.
Bar the single joke they fumbled, Nicholson didn't put a foot wrong. There was not a joke that fell flat, and not a moment of silence throughout an hour that flew by all too fast.
Nicholson is at the top of their game, and long may it continue.
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