Simon Brodkin’s Xavier follows the rule that you should never judge a book by its cover. Whilst it is initially a little anecdotal, it moves quite quickly onto hard-hitting jabs at British public figures and their misdeeds over the past few years. This exuberant and relatable comedy mirrors the role that Brodkin puts on as he tries to find where he would place his alter-ego Xavier, on his good-bad spectrum.
Exuberant and relatable
There’s a restless energy to Brodkin’s delivery and performance, as he darts around the stage engaging with his material and audience members on the fly. He’s very charming as well, delivering punchlines with a kind of mischievous glee, taking joy in the laughter from us and his own delivery of the performance. He really goes in for the most shocking punchlines that he can manage, and uses a kind of tongue in cheek sarcasm to drive criticism of public figures home. It’s a little unclear how his jokes and commentary about British culture, politics and society fit into his exploration of what makes a good person and vice versa as he uses his personal anecdotes to book-end the show, and whilst they set the tone for the main body of the show, it’s a little difficult how it ties together.
Xavier is an extremely entertaining and raucous performance that is guaranteed to make anyone gasp for air. With side-splitting punchlines, this show will improve anyone’s day.
