La Petite Merde

La Petite Merde brings performer Brianna Williams back to the place of her emergence as a stand up comedian. This offbeat, quirky show keeps its audience enthralled and finds its many laughs in unexpected places.

An open, friendly performer, we learn a lot about Brianna as a person, including that she dreamt of being a police officer, but was too short, and that her sister Beth had spent much of their youth exploiting Brianna in practical jokes. A beautifully structured show, it starts with a song, moves through more traditional standup, then launches into some excellent character comedy.

Williams is particularly gifted at drawing the audience into her performance, persuading reluctant and reticent patrons onto the stage with a gorgeous style and grace. The audience are used to wonderful effect and appear to have a ball - and she acknowledges their participation with warmth and affection - a really special part of the show.

The characters we meet are expertly drawn and the sketches are delightful - from workplace bullying, through regurgitated food and Grant Denyer, this show is silly, makes outrageous jumps and has you shaking your head in disbelief, but is also extremely clever and is a lovely breath of fresh air.

Clever, very funny comedy from a beautifully likeable performer.

Kimberley Shaw