Words : Violet Del Toro

4 Stars

‘I hate this gig so much’, Aaron (jokingly) announces about twenty minutes into his set, with a dry chuckle. I can’t blame him. In that time, an older American couple has walked out because ‘they couldn’t understand him’ (note: I’m unsure if they’ve been able to understand any non-American comedians in that case because Aaron’s Northern English accent is easily understandable); secondly, he had to kick out a six-pint deep gal who definitely wanted to be the star of the show after about five interruptions from her. 

For anyone less talented or confident, the walk outs and kicking someone out would’ve ruined the flow, but Aaron’s wit, earnest surprise and above all, ability to laugh at himself, only heightens the humour. He works the crowd with ease, both the disruptors and the friendlies, crafting jokes about Ryan’s pollen allergy and Isla’s bisexuality, both that play in to his narrative so much so that you’d imagine they were planted. 

Interruptions aside, Aaron has an interesting story to tell through bits and comedic timing: growing up working class, a dad who left him before he was born (and an outrageous reconnection over text decades later); he is open about being autistic and being in therapy, to his life now, living with his girlfriend in Edinburgh. His banter is sharp, dark and yet somehow, genuinely heart-warming. It’s an incredible balance to make. 

I expect to be seeing Aaron next year on a much bigger stage. But probably still somewhere with corporate geometric wallpaper. 

Aaron Wood: More to Life 
Venue 108 Hoot 3 at Hoots @ The Apex 
16.50, 23.20
31 July – 25 August