EDINBURGH 2017: Review: RHYS NICHOLSON, Underbelly

Australian comedian Rhys Nicholson is about to have a breakdown, or at least so he thinks. He's got himself a fiancé, a new suit and a series of mental illnesses.

Rhys tackles the serious issue of crippling anxiety and overwhelming depression by discussing it frankly which might be too brutally honest for some members of the audience who he keeps reminding "It's going to get darker, get on board now!". If you enjoy jokes about fisting and drunken blowjobs this show is for you. If you don't, for the love of god don't take your dad and sit on the front row.

When Rhys discusses his illnesses, he does so with a dark charm which will either suck you in or leave you feeling uncomfortable. I rather enjoyed the stories of his pill taking adolescence as he moved from being bullied to being the bully but it's certainly not for everyone.

Rhys Nicholson is clearly a sharp wit, but while there are dick jokes galore this show feels a little underwritten and not entirely original. As Rhys goes through his comedy shtick he points out that he has been nominated for awards and at home he is somewhat of the celebrity - perhaps that is the issue here. If an audience doesn't know you or your background you may need to bring a tighter game.

Timings and ticket information for Rhys Nicholson: I'm Fine are available on the edfringe website.