Intelligent, charismatic and confident; it’s hard to believe this is Nish Kumar’s solo debut at the Edinburgh Fringe (the 42-seater blacked out venue is the only real give away), not to mention the fact that he’s been single for 6 years. 

One half of the acclaimed sketch duo ‘Gentlemen of Leisure’, Kumar’s return to the Fringe proves himself more than able to hold his own during this entertaining and engaging hour-long show. His subject matter covers the much trodden ground of comedic poverty, sexual failures and racism, but does so from a refreshing and unique perspective.

From describing the horror of watching ‘Shame’ with his father to his self-proclaimed ‘sexual reticence’, when it comes to women or even his erections ‘tinged with nostalgia’, the unaffected punch lines are delivered seamlessly and light-heartedly enough to keep the audience in an almost constant state of laughter. 

His honest and self-deprecating portrayal of life as a ‘British Asian’ is delivered with wit and insight, accompanied by a surprisingly relaxed and comfortable interaction with the audience for a comedian of only 26 years of age towards the beginning of his solo stand-up career. His look at the etymology of the English language and how he copes with being labeled a ‘coconut’ is also brilliantly captured with a razor sharp delivery.  

Who is Nish Kumar? I’d say it’s definitely worth going along to this autobiographical show to find out the answer to that question. 

Nish Kumar: Who is Nish Kumar?

Underbelly, Bristo Square

Until 27 August, 20:20

Picture: Idil Sukan