With Purple Pill, Nabil Abdulrashid takes to the stage, promising an intriguing dive into comedy through the multifaceted lens of the comedian himself. Drawing from his rich Nigerian heritage and English upbringing, Abdulrashid's experiences with ADHD and fatherhood become the foundation for a set that delves into racial complexities in contemporary Britain.
A stimulating and engaging comedy show that offers more than just laughter
Far from playing it safe, Abdulrashid unapologetically critiques his fellow comedians, particularly that common type who takes a relatively mundane life event and hangs a comedy show on it, or who, undiagnosed by any source beyond Google, grasps onto a real and serious condition like ADHD to either justify their actions or make themselves somehow more interesting. His approach is bold, but rather than simply shock, his intention is to provoke thought and spark dialogue. The portrait he paints of Croydon's diverse community contrasts sharply with the more sheltered existence of many Fringe-goers, a dichotomy that fuels his unique brand of comedy.
Abdulrashid's humour is edgy, insightful, and imbued with an authenticity shaped by his upbringing. Whether discussing mental health, family, or societal anger, his emotions ride high but never spill into self-pity or excessive sentimentality. He skilfully blends serious topics with perfectly timed one-liners, creating a rhythm that keeps the audience engaged.
However, not everything in Purple Pill lands perfectly. Abdulrashid's humour can push boundaries, which may not be to everyone’s taste. The pacing of the performance also suffers at times, with the comedian's energetic delivery occasionally leaving little room for punchlines to fully resonate. Also, on the night of review the show started late and ran for over an hour so subsequently finished even later, which was a shame as it meant some audience members had to leave early, presumably to get to the next shows in their schedules. This was an unfortunate distraction, particularly as it came during a less energetic, more reflective part of the show.
Despite these minor flaws, Abdulrashid's presence on stage is magnetic. His ease and mastery in weaving call-backs into his performance elevate the show's hilarity. The self-reflective moments and explorations of stereotypes not only entertain but challenge the audience to look at the world differently.
Purple Pill is a stimulating and engaging comedy show that offers more than just laughter. Its thoughtfulness, originality, and fearless approach to complex topics make it a standout performance. While it may not resonate with everyone, Abdulrashid's show is undeniably compelling and well worth the time for those seeking a comedic experience with laughs, depth, and substance.
