Review by Sarah Haliem
I didn’t quite know what to expect out of the Cult of Comedy that was showcased as part of Melbourne International comedy Festival. All I had to go on was the little overview on the MICF website that provides a summary on what the event is about. Essentially, The Cult has always been a mixed and varied bill of performers across all genres of comedy.
That and all in a space of 1 hour, the show acts as a warm welcome to MICF 2017, encouraging the audience that there is much to see out there. Hosted and run by comedian Sameena Zehra,who plays her role well – paving the way for each comedian who is due to perform their act. Comedians who had the honour to present on my night, included Laura Davis and Lisa Skye, both of whom had stories to tell in their own humorous styles – stories that many can relate to in everyday life, that change how we perceive the everyday life as mundane into something we can all laugh about.
It was also pleasing to see from Skye, who is very ‘out there’ in her appearance, through doing this show, we are contributing to her charity. It is also through her act that she helps to break societal standards on how a person ‘should’ look and, in a fun and light-hearted way.
The comedians are animated and full of energy. They all have their quirky statements to make: statements that are unconventional such as a ‘rapist being better than a feminist?’ The acts all challenge the audience, as well as being entertaining, in providing a different angle on life; questioning what is normal.
With the night closing with a guitarist who generously played more than what was expected of him, the main message to take from the show is to not take life too seriously – be yourself and laugh it off!
When: 29th March – 9th April 2017 | 7:30pm
Where: The Upstairs Lounge | Little Sista | MELBOURNE
Tickets: $20.30 – $28.30
Info: Duration 55 minutes | Suitable 18+ | No wheelchair access
Link: https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/2023/shows/the-cult-of-comedy-presents#