Felicity Ward's Ugly As A Child Variety Show

Felicity Ward's latest show is all about herself. Far from egotistical, however, it is a self-deprecating look at her upbringing and all the things that make her a little weird. A bit like an Australian Maria Bamford, she carries the show with energetic and at times frantic power, peppered with voices and personas from her experiences.

The richest humour comes from stories about Ward's cheap but cheerful childhood, as she describes memories that range from cringeworthy to simply absurd. Monologues about still being single and insecure about it (a tired subject for any comedian) are, happily, kept short. Ward's show title implies a bit of variety, which we do get in the form of two songs – I would have enjoyed more, as she is a talented singer – and an audience participation trivia game. These interludes do much to break up the manic energy of the rest of the show.

For the most part, Ward gets the balance just right – audience participation that isn't too embarrassing, swearing that isn't too crass, a good mix of material and a wonderful stage presence. However, it takes a while for her to build into a solidly funny show. Additionally, some jokes feel a bit overworn: sing-songing one or two punclines in a silly voice is funny, but after the sixth or seventh it does get tired. However, Ward is well worth seeing – it's up to the audience to decide if they're laughing at her or with her, but they will definitely be laughing.