Alex Stringer @ Pleasance Courtyard

Alex Stringer has been sober for eight years. After hearing tales of projectile vomiting in the backs of cars, secretly sneaking in drinks between rounds, a fairly unglamorous stint in rehab (due to a disappointing lack of celebrities), and a sobering retelling of a non-sober drive home, it makes sense. But, Stringer is quick to prove, her alcoholism will not be the thing which defines her. She is warm, welcoming, full of quick quips and plenty of self-deprecation without straying into self-loathing. Most importantly in this context, she is funny, and Happy Hour is a debut that provides the bones to what will one day be a full-bodied routine.

There is very occasionally a slight lapse in confidence. Some punchlines are supplemented with unnecessary Gen Z-isms, (think exaggerated confused expressions, or performative affirmations dripping in sarcasm), and there are a few well-worn jokes - pictures of men holding fish on their dating app profiles being a turn off is not a hot take (or hake). But, thankfully, these moments are extremely rare. 

Instead, for the most part, we are gifted an hour of authentic, fresh comedy, born from a very funny woman having been in some very un-funny situations. A real stand-out is Stringer’s ability to interact with her audience in a way which causes us to shuffle to the front of our seats in anticipation, desperate to be picked on next. There’s a well-meaning, genuine edge to her crowdwork – even when you know you’re likely to end up looking a bit silly, it’s like being roasted by your funniest mate. 

There are a few one-liners and a nice bit of callback, but this is predominantly anecdotal comedy, and Stringer is excellent at it. Talking about her family members, namely her dad, ignites an infectious light in Stringer that really gives this hour its backbone. In summary, this is a show with a lot of heart, and with a bit more practice and a splash more of the authenticity she proves she is so capable of, Stringer can make this Happy Hour one to be truly proud of.

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Alex Stringer: Happy Hour, Pleasance Courtyard (Bunker Three), until 24 Aug, 6pm, £9-13