AD| This Is Not The Autistic You Are Looking For – Review
Calling all StageSiders, welcome back to another review here at StageSideUK. This time around, we’re diving into Mark Nicholas’ This Is Not the Autistic You Are Looking For, a stand-up comedy show that played the Newcastle Fringe Festival.
This Is Not the Autistic You Are Looking For is a refreshingly honest show that takes aim at the stereotypes surrounding autistic people, navigating the often tricky territory of humour about neurodiversity. With a sharp wit and an unflinching approach, Nicholas delivers a set that is as thought-provoking as it is funny.
Nicholas did his best to keep the energy flowing, even when delving into topics that might make some feel uneasy or uncomfortable. One of the standout moments was an impromptu conversation with an audience member, which not only showcased the comic’s quick thinking but also highlighted how well the show was received. The audience member, who related to Nicholas’ story, expressed their enjoyment whilst riffing off Nicholas’ joke. This interaction added a personal touch to the performance, demonstrating the comedian’s ability to connect with the audience in a meaningful way.
The comedy itself was a well-balanced mix of dad jokes, rude one-liners, and some close-to-the-bone puns that hit just the right notes. The show never felt too heavy or too light; instead, it maintained a mixture of humour that kept the audience engaged throughout. The comic’s approach to poking fun at typical autistic triggers and behaviours was handled well, blending sensitivity with sharp satire in a way that felt both authentic and entertaining.
However, as with many work-in-progress shows, there are areas that could benefit from some fine-tuning. The timing, for instance, could use a bit of tightening up. Some jokes didn’t have enough room to breathe, while others were given too much of a gap, which occasionally disrupted the flow of the performance. That said, these are minor issues that are to be expected at this stage in development, and they didn’t detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the show.
This Is Not the Autistic You Are Looking For is a brave and important addition to the comedy scene, offering a unique perspective that challenges audiences to think, whilst having a chuckle. With a bit of polishing, this show has the potential to be a slick stand up comedy routine. It’s a strong start for a work in progress, and I’m eager to see how it evolves in future performances.
Have your say!
Have you seen This is Not the Autistic you are looking for? What did you think? Let me know in the comments and let’s get a discussion going.
As always, please be respectful of each other’s opinions and be kind to each other. I completely respect and value everyone that worked on this show. We need to remember that these are people with feelings. Let’s treat them with respect. Bullying will not be tolerated and harmful language will be removed.
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