If you’re looking for a truly delightful night, you’ve found it.
Abby Howell’s triumphant return to stand-up comedy after a seven-year absence is joyful, nostalgic, empowering, and (most importantly) hysterical. Interweaving stories of her own triumphs and downfalls with tales of great women in comedy throughout the years, Abby hooks you from the start and doesn’t let you go.
As a performer, she is charismatic, engaging, and infinitely charming. She is relaxed and calm, but also in control. There are more than a few belly laughs to be had in this show, particularly in her wonderfully excitable storytelling and her total commitment to every bit. She also uses props in very original and funny ways.
Behind this gorgeous piece of comedy is a story of deep sadness, of a woman driven off the stage who’s finding her way back into the light. The sad and the joyful elements are perfectly balanced; the audience is allowed to feel sadness and sympathy, but the night never feels like a downer or a drag – the feeling you leave the theatre with is triumph.
There is no telling how far this young lady can go in comedy. Abby Howell is back, and we’re damn lucky to have her.
“Ten out of ten.”