Words: Jacqueline Ross

5 stars

Ian Smith invites you to go wild and crazy at 1.35pm. Shoutiness abounds over intermittent air-conditioning in a tunnel connected to an obscure Romanian escapee – a perfect setting for a show about stress.  

Stories flow seamlessly from Ian’s brilliant mind, each cleverly connected to the next. Whether a one-liner or an elaborate build up, it’s the kind of comedy you sometimes have to think about for a moment before you laugh, but then you really laugh.

Beginning with his uncle whose hands were too high for his hips then travelling through the audacity of Gu puddings, pronunciation of the letter H and the three bumbag vibe, the stories were top quality. Margaret dusting off her laptop after four years was a particular highlight. Each moment was crafted with observation and skill.

Ironically, going wild and crazy with Ian at 1.35pm is bound to help you de-stress. His tales are relatable, plentiful and downright hilarious. If he asked you to go smash up a car in Slovakia you would tag along. Oh … and the texture of those fliers!

Ian Smith: Crushing
Monkey Barrel Comedy, The Tron
13.35
20-27 Aug