Actually, Good - Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2024 (VIC)
Presented by Gillian Cosgriff
Reviewed by Annika Loci
Melbourne Town Hall
Until 21st April, 2024
Inviting audiences to reflect on where their own happiness can be found, Actually, Good is a thought-provoking hour of Gillian Cosgriff's comedic brilliance that combines musical theatre and stand-up with audience suggestions in real time.
For a number of years, Gillian Cosgriff has been a name most have related to the professional performing arts scene, whether that be in the original cast of Harry Potter Cursed Child or more recently in the area of musical comedy. Last year Cosgriff’s show Actually, Good became one of the hottest tickets of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, winning Most Outstanding Show and Best Independent Show, leading to a sold-out season at the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Festival. She returns to the 2024 festival with a new season of Actually, Good, with tickets in high demand once again.
Actually, Good is a hilarious hour of clever and reflective comedy, with a well-paced and enjoyable balance of original songs, stand up, and collaboration with the audience. The thought of audience participation can often strike fear in many, however our sold-out show had plenty of willing participants, meaning most people could just sit back and enjoy what unfolded. The combination of Cosgriff’s relaxed, humorous style while sharing poignant life moments, and quick-thinking wit during unscripted sections had the entire room completely engaged from the beginning.
Photo by Simone Ruggiero
The show is a simple idea that came out of holiday boredom between Cosgriff and her partner; a top 10 list in reverse order, of events, experiences, activities, relationships or just stuff they enjoy. We often discuss what we are extremely passionate about whether that be positive or negative, however rarely talk about what the simple (or complex) pleasures and delights in our lives are?
What results is a celebration of unique thoughts and feelings with a strong reminder not to take life for granted and to relish in our individuality. Like every show gone before this, the audience’s top 10 suggestions offered up are included in Cosgriff’s keepsake “Book of Good” and you are invited post show to peruse the lists going back to the very first show.
Cosgriff expertly guides the evening through her own top 10 list using her background in musical theatre whilst interweaving audience suggestions. Our show’s list included everything from the practical joys of a freshly made bed and completely unpacking luggage after holidays, to buying fresh warm bread, and the cheeky fun of grossing out your students as a science teacher. Our top two were autumn in Melbourne and the feeling you get just before you talk about someone you love. There were plenty of laughs, giggles and murmurs of agreement from the audience as Cosgriff chose at random and confidently explored each suggestion. The improvised elements highlighted her true comedic prowess and ability to listen and find ways to relate the random suggestions to her content.
Actually, Good takes you on a thought-provoking journey, asking every individual to reflect on where their own happiness can be found. This show is not just good… it’s actually brilliant.
Sydney Comedy Festival Dates
The Grand Electric, Sydney
29 April, 2024
Adult:
Wed & Thu $34.00
Fri & Sat $39.00
Sun $34.00
Concession:
Wed & Thu $30.00
Sun $30.00
Group (6+):
Wed & Thu $30.00
Sun $30.00
Preview:
All Tix $30.00
Tightarse Tuesday:
$30.00
Triple R Subscribers:
Wed & Thu $30.00
Sun $30.00
Thu 28 Mar - Sat 30 Mar: 7.30pm;
Sun 31 Mar: 6.30pm
Tue 2 Apr & Wed 3 Apr: 7.30pm
Melb Town Hall - Powder Room, 100 Swanston St, Melbourne
Tue 16 Apr - Sat 20 Apr: 9.15pm;
Sun 21 Apr: 8.15pm
Melb Town Hall - Supper Room, 100 Swanston St, Melbourne
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