★★★★
Even in the niche of autistic stand-ups and comedians, you begin to hear common experiences and observations. Yet, Brighton-based Paggy manages to subvert every expectation and deliver an hour of highly original and clever comedy, there is a cavalcade of authentic material that is as unexpected as it funny.
Paggy is immensely likeable and open, showing a vulnerability and assured style other comedians take years to reach. There are many set pieces that are crowd-pleasers, the special interest of punning train station signs a particular favourite.
At the show’s heart is an exploration of neurodivergence, and Paggy’s interactions with their brain called ‘Brady Brain’ voiced by the excellent Paul Wady (who we reviewed in Edinburgh) shows the reality of executive dysfunction in a way audiences can understand.
My highlight was the surreal character ‘Paintbrush Paggy’, an angry, clowning almost demonic creature that brandishes a paintbrush and deals with ‘audience problems’ which was a marvel to witness.
Paggy is a very talented autistic writer and performer, who has been developing this show for over a year. It started out as A Journey Through a Literal Mind as part of the Neurospace Theatre Showcase at Baron’s Court Theatre and now in this work-in-progress incarnation. They are certainly one to watch as I am sure we will see great things from them in the future.
Stimmicanto was part of the Brighton Fringe at Presuming Eds. May 5-17th
