Review: Lauren Edwards at Theory Bar

Review by Greg Gorton

At the start of her show Chihuahua, Lauren Edwards jokingly laments that her life is just a little too good and so has nothing to make comedy out of. Fortunately, like the pint-sized dog she named the show after, Edwards is bursting with energy and has no problem yapping away with supreme confidence in her ability to remain the centre of attention.

In a show that compares real estate agents, grumbles about how attractive Gen Z stars are, and defends pickpockets, Edwards keeps us on our toes, never quite letting us catch our breath before the next punchline lands. And speaking of breath… Does she even take one? Edwards speaks with a rhythm that's rapid but never rushed. While many comedians might pause to let laughter settle, this comedian powers through, and if my stomach can’t handle that many laughs at once, well too bad.

One thing I've noticed among the independent comics during this year's MICF is a lack of confidence. Comedians feeling the need to remark openly when a joke falls flat, comedians leaning on multimedia techniques to bolster their shows, and comedians using costumes and sets for shows that aren't character pieces.

That’s what makes Edwards such a refreshing presence: the jokes come first, and only the punchline matters. Edwards stands on a bare stage. It’s just her, a mic, a bottle of water, and a loud shirt celebrating her beloved dog Stanley Tucci. Even the shirt feels less like a costume and more like something she’d genuinely wear down the street.

The variety of topics covered is also impressive. Sure, she covers familiar territory like aging, real estate agents, and the existential question of having kids, but she also takes trips into the world of giant Chihuahua penises, kleptomaniac cats, Phantom of the Opera, and the trials of being a “personality hire.” Some references hit harder if you're a millennial or have spent time on the Gold Coast, but even if a joke’s context flies over your head, the punchline always lands.

After seeing dozens of shows this year, I can honestly say one of Edwards' jokes is my current favorite of the entire MICF. When she starts talking about her fur baby, make sure you haven’t just taken a sip of your drink.

There’s little to fault in this performance. Was she a touch too loud? Maybe I just picked a bad seat. Yes she had a crib sheet, but it barely got a glance. Honestly, with the sheer density of jokes packed into an hour, I’d want one too. Edwards' delivery is relaxed, and even when her material edges into judgement or sarcasm, there’s no real venom in the bite.

Lauren Edwards clearly loves the stage, loves the audience, and absolutely loves making people laugh. Chihuahua is a fast-paced, joke-heavy hour that feels like a pure hit of stand-up comedy. Taking a chance on independent comics can sometimes be a gamble, but with Lauren Edwards, it’s a sure bet.