This is a phenomenal show. I’d never thought that there was a gap in the market for brilliant comedy broken up with equally hilarious original rap songs, but I’m kicking myself for not coming up with the idea first. Amelia Hamilton waltzes on stage after a western-themed audio introduction, with the confidence of a comic who has been doing this her entire life. There is great stand-up material in here, but the most striking aspect is undoubtedly her musical ability. In one of the songs, she has the entire crowd chanting that they don’t care about men and their feelings and hobbies, especially rock climbing. There is also some great stuff about re-stigmatising mental health for the benefit of society, as it has made men boring and bad.
She dives straight into the crowd work, of which I was the first victim – being asked if I am a “nice, good boy” to which I of course replied, “I think so, yes?” This goes up another level during a bit about 90 per cent of her wardrobe being clothes that used to belong to her sister’s ex boyfriends, where she takes a jacket from an unsuspecting member of the audience, only returning it because it was particularly warm in the venue that evening. The talent on display is mind-boggling especially when it comes to the original songs, which are introduced seamlessly and in relation to the jokes just told, which will keep you eagerly anticipating when the next one could be coming up.
Everything is wrapped up in a way that feels truly relatable for everyone in the room. Despite men being the problem, Hamilton makes it clear she has issues and has made mistakes in the past. It’s all well and good to say that you’ve learned from your mistakes but there is something much more genuine and, certainly, funny about just accepting certain flaws in your personality. She executes this balance to perfection.
Amelia Hamilton: Moral Support, 20:20,Baby Grand at Pleasance Courtyard, Aug 5-18, 20-30
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/amelia-hamilton-moral-support
