Those looking for a show that takes a cold, hard look at the path to sobriety won’t find it here. Instead fresh-faced comedian Noah Holland offers up a delightfully unserious snapshot of life after sobriety in their debut stand-up hour.

Admitting early in the show that addiction is, in their own words, ‘not very funny’, the (mostly) sober Noah examines their identity after quitting drinking. That person, as it turns out, is very funny.

The show can be categorised into two halves: Noah’s life as an Adelaide-born comedian, reflecting on family, childhood, and an obsession with The Beatles, and Noah’s life post-migration to Melbourne: exploring their sexuality and gender identity. Sprinkled throughout are some wonderfully absurd non-sequiturs, including possibly the funniest opening joke in any festival show this year.

Ernest, non-chalant and endlessly witty, Noah disarms the audience with their friendliness, landing even the most intentionally ham-fisted punchlines with grace. Even at the most serious examinations of mental health, there is an air of fun throughout the show that never lets up.

Opening comedian Chelsea Finlayson, a RAW Comedy state finalist, hits the mark up top with spirited and sardonic youthfulness, setting up the tone and themes of the show.

Presented at 6pm in the heart of the CBD, Hold My Beer has enough range and appeal to please the most casual Fringe-goers and die-hard comedy fans. There is something for everyone in this show.

Hold My Beer is showing Feb 25th – March 1st at Hymn Bar.

Tickets HERE

4 stars