Sam See:  Government Approved Sex

Relationships, and break-ups in particular, are a common focus for stand-up. The prevalence of the subject has become something of a joke in itself. Sam See’s Government Approved Sex is a new twist, interspersing personal anecdotes with teachable moments, We’re not just hearing about his experiences, but learning more about the subject matter and its applicability to our own lives.

A clear example of his wit and ability to craft a narrative within a comedy show

Government Approved Sex is the perfect mix of fun and education. See takes us through a series of panels on love and relationships that he was asked to lead by the Singapore government, using the topics explored to signpost the development of his own. He does this again with the love languages, creating a structured storyline that is entertaining in its twists and turns. Although the show contains often dreaded audience participation, with the rapport that See establishes from the beginning, he puts us at complete ease. We find ourselves wanting to engage with him throughout the show.

The set is a great example of wit and wordplay. There is a gentle rhythm to See’s storytelling, carefully crafted within the hour. Tangents follow a logical path and are often used to expand on certain topics through the data shown. We are able to learn something as See provides commentary that is both insightful and highly funny. 

If time passes quickly while you’re having fun, listening to Sam See’s jokes breaks all records. His easygoing, friendly persona makes his set a true escape. It’s easy to forget yourself and get lost in the comedy. He is a very inviting narrator. We see this especially in the moments where he talks about more difficult experiences, but is still able to make us laugh as the tone that he sets from the start does not leave any room for negativity.

Government Approved Sex genuinely tries to teach and inform whilst making light of a difficult topic. See’s good naturedness informs the tone of his comedy and this set is a clear example of his wit and ability to craft a narrative within a comedy show. Sam See is right in saying that Government Approved Sex will make you sore from laughter.

Reviews by Katerina Partolina Schwartz

Music Hall Aberdeen

Iain Stirling - Relevant

★★★★
Queen Elizabeth Hall

The House with the Chicken Legs

★★
Lyric Theatre

Peter Pan Goes Wrong

★★★★
Eventim Apollo

Iliza Shlesinger - Hard Feelngs Tour

★★★★★
Park Theatre London

The Time Machine

★★★★★
The Stand Comedy Club

Rachel Fairburn: Showgirl

★★★

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now

Performances

Location

The Blurb

During the pandemic, Sam See was asked by the Singapore Government to run a series of educational panels in the National Library about love and sex.

What came out of it became the sex education that you’ve never had.

Welcome to Government Approved Sex, finally making its London debut after acclaimed runs at Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

A stand-up comedy show about relationships, BDSM and scientific facts, this critically acclaimed hour will have you laughing, learning and loving by the time it’s over. And don't worry... It's all government approved.

Most Popular See More

Back to the Future - The Musical

From £24.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Tina - The Tina Turner Musical

From £12.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Wicked

From £25.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Matilda the Musical

From £24.00

More Info

Find Tickets

The Lion King

From £35.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

From £30.00

More Info

Find Tickets