Melbourne International Comedy Festival review

After attending 13 weddings in one year, it’s not surprising Sarah Gaul ponders the nature of marriage. However, she treats the topic as a very loose rail on which to hang various comedy songs and observations

There’s not a huge amount of ambition in her subject matter, whose limited range goes from dating bros to brunches to loving true-crime podcasts to the archetypes you get in group chat. It’s true to her life experience as a 31-year-old white woman the city, but also a little basic – if only she would stretch her horizons a little further.

That said, she distils those experiences into brightly amusing piano-backed songs that are light on the ear. Her chat between numbers is friendly and upbeat, and she can craft a witty turn of phrase – although that generally comes in lieu of proper jokes.

Behind the light cabaret vibe, there are some points to be scored. Toxic alpha-masculinity is an easy, if well-deserved target, while the consideration of what actually constitutes a family ask some questions of the status-quo.

Yet even with these elements, Wife remains a relatively flimsy – if entertaining - offering. This talented, relaxed performer is coasting in a low gear.

Review date: 12 Apr 2022
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett
Reviewed at: Melbourne International Comedy Festival