Edgy, funny and just bloody fabulous, find out if true love is worth the price of a truly killer punchline
Presented by: Adelaide Festival presents a production by Francesca Moody Productions in association with Roast Productions
Reviewed: 27 February, 2025
“I’m 36, I’m a comedian, and I’m about to kill my boyfriend…”
And with that killer of an opening line, Tony and Olivier-nominated actor, Samuel Barnett, had clearly won the crowd at ‘comedian’.
A nameless comedian kicks off his usual routine with stories of permanent singledom, years of self-abasement and the delight and trauma of finally meeting “Mr Right”. Clever to the extreme, the narrative unfolds as though it were a stand-up show with the highly neurotic, highly sexed and chronically anxious protagonist using his daily traumas to produce “good copy”. Like all effective stand-ups, Barnett pulls the audience in with his stories of woe, acceptance of the unacceptable and very British self-deprecation. In recounting his sexual exploits via dating apps that mimic fast food delivery, he both shocks and saddens. Insightful and sharp witted, the comedian’s internal monologue presents a character who is relatable and tragic in his continued efforts to self-sabotage.
When he meets “The American”, a perfect adonis-like being who is chiselled, charming and interested in “taking it slow”, romance blooms. And as fans of the genre know, when boy meets boy, the path to true love is strewn with obstacles and, in this case, nihilistic humour, preventing easy attainment of “happily ever after”. And speaking of “happy”, what’s the one thing that a professional stand-up comedian craves above all else? You got it – laughter. Here’s where playwright Marcelo Dos Santos really shines – while the romance trope may be familiar, it’s the inventive twists that keep it fresh.
In the role of ‘comedian’, Samuel Barnett’s acting prowess delivers a depth of character that is almost Shakesperian. His timed delivery of punchlines, ability to slip effortlessly from neurosis to fun guy and back again, his energy and stage presence, were outstanding. Performing all “roles”, Barnett effectively conjured the presence of The American, so it seemed this sane, sensitive, rational character took centre stage as Barnett adopted a baritone. And while Barnett’s comedian persona has hints of the ‘Fleabag’ character about it, his effective use of pauses, insistence on being “fine”, and out-of-control fear that something terrible, usually death, is about to happen, conjure palpable desperation. At one point, Barnett questions why everyone is so calm, why is it that he has to do all the screaming?
When talented actors and writers collaborate, the result is productions like Feeling Afraid As If Something Terrible Is Going To Happen. In one hour, this show manages to explore human connection, thoughts and fears, while simultaneously showcasing quick wit, perfectly structured narratives, and romance as addictive as Bridgerton. While certainly dark, it also delivers hope that good things are possible when you get out of your own way.
Be warned that this show includes drug references, graphic sexual references together with inventively graphic (often funny in itself) terminology, though there are no accompanying on-stage visuals. And while not a particularly comfortable watch at times, the dark wit and occasional slapstick interlude, coupled with Barnett’s profound talent, provided levity. A particular highlight was the moment that a slippery banana peel fulfilled the role of Chekov’s gun. For regular theatre goers, buy a ticket for this intellectual gag moment alone. For everyone else, just buy a ticket. It’s a perfect fit for the Adelaide Festival and if you like your theatre edgy, funny and just bloody fabulous, this show is a must. Find out if true love is worth the price of a truly killer punchline.
Reviewed by Samantha Bond
Photo credit: Mihaela Bodlovic
Venue: Space Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre
Season: 26 Feb – 2 March 2025
Duration: 65 mins
Tickets: $25 – $59 (plus booking fees
Bookings: https://www.adelaidefestival.com.au/events/feeling-afraid/
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