Presented by Nic Spunde
Reviewed 29 February 2017
This is a fantastic stand-up show that delves with humour and interest into the world of growing up asexual, and its many complications.
Asexual Healing is a combination of hilarious stand-up comedy, important social commentary, and, really, a detailed biography of Spunde’s life growing up as an asexual. This is Nic Spunde’s first show performing in a female identity and they do a fantastic job!
Spunde reminisces over their time in a strict, religious all-boys school and how they would purposely piss off the teacher by writing erotic fiction for class assignments, and their first time having sex (and what an interestingly awkward experience it was).
It’s incredibly interesting to hear about asexuality from someone who actually identifies with that orientation (and someone with such a great sense of humour). From claiming eunuchs are asexual action-heroes, to going home with strangers from clubs only to fall asleep on their beds and leave their new friend disappointed, Spunde hilariously details the trials and tribulations of life as an asexual.
As much as Spunde speaks with an air of humour about their humorous experiences, they do get serious in some parts about how truly difficult it was growing up feeling out of place in a society obsessed with sex. They detail the isolation felt due to being on completely different sexual-wave lengths to everyone else around them, and especially when asexuality hadn’t been identified as a sexual orientation.
As we go back in time to Spunde’s past, many entertaining 80’s and 90’s references pop out such as the good old-fashioned video, the original Pride & Prejudice (the one with Colin Firth), and especially the popular sci-fi series, X-Files. They humorously reference this famous alien-hunting TV show throughout the performance, including an impressive impersonation which David Duchovny himself would be proud of.
The show did feel slightly staged and stilted at times, but it hardly affected the overall performance, and certainly shouldn’t put anyone off seeing the show.
Asexuality isn’t a common topic among stand-up performers, but Asexual Healing is a fantastic example of how great it can be, so put this on your Fringe list for a humorous late night treat.
Reviewed by Georgina Smerd
Twitter: @Georgie_xox
Rating out of 5: 4
Venue: Henrietta’s at The Henry Austin, 29 Chesser St, Adelaide
Season: March 1 – 4
Duration: 55 mins
Tickets: $15 – $22
Bookings: https://www.adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/asexual-healing
More News
