The first thing you notice at a Fern Brady show is that thick Scottish brogue, as she quickly introduces herself back-stage, before entering to a hilariously deadpan introduction.
They say a jovial accent is one of the biggest weapons a comedian can have and Brady certainly has one in spades, with each routine comes a generous splash of self-aware Scottish charm. That said, Brady lets her material speak for itself.
It soon becomes obvious that she masterfully orchestrates the crowd throughout, raising their energy like a maestro conducting a crescendo throughout her longer anecdotes, leaving the entire performance feeling cohesive and meaningful on a deeper level.
Fern Brady – I Gave You Milk To Drink (UK)
- Nightly until April 21
- Rydges Ballroom
- Get tickets here
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Not that there are any cheap laughs at a Brady gig, nor would you expect them from one of the biggest names at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival this year.
A packed audience at Rydges Ballroom were treated to some of the finest timing, writing and delivery you’re likely to see at the Comedy Festival, as the international comedic star spun through subtly vicious riffs on Taskmaster, Bake Off, Strictly and various other of her in-demand television appearances.
Brady is not only one of the UK’s bonafide comedy superstars at the moment (continual sellouts at Edinburgh Fringe and acclaimed appearances on Live from the BBC and The Russell Howard Hour also line her CV), she’s also an accomplished writer. She boasts a bestselling memoir; Strong Female Character, and regularly pens columns for The Guardian and The Huffington Post, where her incisive commentary extends beyond the confines of the comedy club.
So it’s needless to say, Brady is a comedian with a lot to speak about. Her routines vary wildly as she skewers her own social absurdities, from bizarre Thai sojourns through the trials and tribulations of psychedelics, to straightforward punchlines about relationship dramas that still somehow seem fresh, contrary to all our better judgement.
Most impressively, Brady successfully weaves common motifs throughout, enlightening the audience about life on the autism spectrum and the humble way she manages her self-esteem. Both routines are brutally honest without a hint of self-indulgence and peppered with exceptionally clever, measured punchlines.
Brady is doubtlessly one of the most talented and accomplished comedians at this year’s festival and a must-see. Get tickets here.
