Words: Calum Baxter
Image: Rebecca Need-Menear

4 stars 

Hailing from Penzance, the comedian, actor and writer, Tamsyn Kelly has received recognition for her work, including being a regional finalist in the BBC New Comedian of the Year Award in 2021 and winning the Edinburgh Comedy Panel Prize, Best in Class the following year. Her TV credits include ITV2’s The Stand Up Sketch Show alongside a raft of comedic talent including Seann Walsh, Russell Kane, Glenn Moore, Finlay Christie and Esther Manito.

Rat’s Ass explores her journey to stand-up comedy, reflecting on her experiences with both affluent drama school peers and her time working in a call centre. This timely hour of stand-up positions Kelly as a notable emerging talent. 

As a storyteller, Kelly is effective, infusing humour into anecdotes about her rescue rat, her fondness for Blue Peter, and her brother’s celiac disease. Her self-assured stage presence carries the audience through some of the more cliched observations about her new short haircut. Each callback is skilfully incorporated into her narrative, and her tap dance and ABBA remix add an enjoyable element to the show.

Emotional moments are handled with sensitivity, providing a space to engage with the deeper themes of Rat’s Ass. Kelly addresses challenges and complexities candidly, demonstrating a heartfelt sincerity. Throughout the performance, she communicates directly: pursuing comedy has its costs, particularly for those without financial resources. Rat’s Ass is a worthwhile investment for audiences.

Tamsyn Kelly: Rat’s Ass
CabVol2 at Monkey Barrell
16:20
15-30 Aug