Comedy review: Becky Lucas: Little Bitch

Edinburgh Festival Fringe: This is a tight 50 minutes of funny, gimmick-free stand-up from a tiny Australian in a tiny room.

Assembly George Square Theatre (Venue 8)

***

Despite her stature and unchallenging demeanour, she owns the space within minutes.

Her gag-heavy, autobiographical comedy is occasionally tinged with darkness yet always delivered with a disarming toothy smile. It’s ironic that much of her material revolves around self-deprecating swipes as she’s exceedingly likeable.

She also knows that the key to good observational comedy is to pick up on trivial things that you’ve observed without realising it, hence her observation that you never see old twins works so well.

Other subjects under review include school bullies, inspirational teachers, the dangers of white wine consumption and the strange, sad world of inflatable sex doll enthusiasts.

Although there’s no overarching theme, for the most part Lucas moves smoothly between each subject. Her personality and punchlines are what holds the show together. This isn’t ground-breaking stuff by any means, but it isn’t trying to be. It’s a collection of intelligent, witty, honest jokes delivered by a pro. Sometimes that’s all you need.

Until 27 August. Today 7pm.